More food scraps needed

Demand for food scraps is rising as more farms look to convert waste into nutrient-rich soil, according to City to Farm (C2F).

The organisation, which links education providers with local farms, says increased interest in compost and biochar is driving the need for more food scraps.

Spokesperson Betsy Kettle says organic material that would otherwise go to landfill is now a valuable input for improving soil quality.

“We have had more farms contacting us over the past few months especially with the war in Iran,” she says.

The organisation collects scraps from commercial kitchens, hospitality businesses and early childhood centres. Kettle says as many larger ECEs struggle to manage composting on site, collection services are a practical option.

After food scraps are collected, they are stored in sealed bins before being transported to participating farms. Once there, they undergo a further two weeks of Bokashi composting before being added to swales lined with biochar.

The result is more than just waste reduction. Kettle says improving soil structure can increase drought resistance, boost water absorption, reduce erosion and help crops cope with extreme weather.

“It’s about turning Rodney’s clay soil into fertile topsoil,” she says. “That has real benefits for resilience and food production.”

Once the programme begins, C2F assesses the collection area and type of food scraps, then delivers wheelie bins, instruction posters, and trains staff. When the container is full or at the end of the day, it is moved, the airtight lid is strapped down, and stored outside in a shady place, until the weekly collection when it is replaced with a clean container.

Participating centres can also visit C2F’s banana farm, where compost and biochar are used to improve soil health. Some also purchase the farmed bananas directly, closing the loop between waste and food production.

“It’s great for the kids and parents as they learn how the bananas are produced. Anyone can grow bananas but here they can see for themselves the difference the compost and biochar makes to the soils,” Kettle says.

The programme accepts a wide range of organic waste, including fruit and vegetables, cooked food, meat, dairy, bread, grains, coffee grounds and small amounts of soft paper.

C2F also offers workshops for rural residents interested in soil building, supported by Auckland Council. Rural landowners interested in the May 2 workshop can register through Humantix – Rodney Soils Workshops.