New food waste service starts 31 March

While food waste containers are being delivered across Derby, residents are reminded that weekly collections will only begin from 31 March 2026. The change is being introduced by councils nationwide following Government reforms to waste legislation. 

Containers are being delivered early and in stages, as more than 100,000 are distributed across the city. This phased approach ensures every household receives what they need in time for the service. Each household will receive a complete food waste set — including a 23-litre outdoor container, a 5-litre kitchen caddy and a printed guide — before their first collection. Residents are asked to put their house number on the green container and keep it safe until the service begins.  
 
Residents can use any type of bag or liner when collecting food waste, including reused household bags such as bread, potato or frozen food bags, as well as plastic or compostable liners. The processing system is designed to remove all bags and liners (plastic or compostable) before food waste is recycled into renewable energy and fertiliser. By reusing bags you already have, you give them a second life and avoid the environmental impact of producing specialist liners.

Residents can find full details about Derby’s new weekly food waste collections at derby.gov.uk/bins