The Problems of Traditional Food Waste Disposal Methods

Waste Disposal Units and Macerators

Putting food waste into the drain system is illegal in many parts of the world. Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have all banned the practice. It will also be illegal in England from 2023 with the passing of the Environment Act 2021. Waste disposal units and so-called "dewaterers" such as macerators or food waste disposers chop up food waste, extracting larger particles and then flush the ‘slurry’ into the drains causing blockages which must be cleared frequently. If you are using one of these units in England it will be banned from 2023. 

Compactors and Wheelie Bins

Food waste is messy and smelly. Rotting waste in compactors and wheelie bins poses a major hygiene problem with the attraction of vermin and pests. Environmental Health Officers need to be satisfied and pest control measures put in place. Food waste corrodes compactors and increases maintenance costs. Bins needs to be washed frequently. All this requires extra money on top of the cost of transporting the 80% of food waste which is water. Have you worked out how much you are paying for this in your organisation?

Grey Water Systems

These systems involves the use of a macerator and a pump to a holding tank for the slurry. The pipework and holding tank are expensive to install (upwards of £100,000). The waste contractor charges high fees to empty the tank so there is little if any financial saving. Grey water systems also use large volumes of water to pump the slurry away.

Composting

It is a long process: six weeks normally, although some claim less. Wood chips need to be added daily and you will need an outside location and a strong constitution for the smell. It is a natural process but unless you have grounds to spread the product it is only for businesses with grounds or gardens where the compost can be used.

Waste-to-Water Systems - Liquidizing Digesters

These units, sometimes also called liquidizing digesters or aerobic digesters use added enzymes to turn the food waste into liquid slurry which is then flushed into the drain system. Foods such as soups and gravies go directly through the machine into the drain system. They require a hot water source (50°C) of up to 600L per hour and typically cost thousands per annum in water costs. These units are banned in Scotland, Wales and Northern ireland and will also be banned in England from 2023.