Food Waste Recycling Drop-In Sessions Launch Across East Riding
East Riding of Yorkshire Council has launched a series of free drop-in sessions across the region to help residents get to grips with food waste recycling, timed to coincide with National Food Waste Action Week running from Monday 9 to Sunday 15 March.
Sessions are being held in seven locations — Goole, Withernsea, Pocklington, Hedon, Hornsea, Beverley and Driffield — offering practical advice on how to recycle food waste effectively, reduce household waste and make meals stretch further. No booking is required, and all residents are welcome to attend.
The initiative forms part of the national Simpler Recycling programme, which aims to standardise recycling practices across England and make it easier for households to do the right thing with their waste.
A big change is coming
The drop-in sessions come ahead of a major change to waste collections in the Hull area. Hull City Council is set to launch weekly food and garden waste collections from 31 March 2026, a significant expansion of the city's recycling infrastructure that has required 70 new members of staff to be recruited to the waste management service.
Trials are already underway in blocks of flats for communal recycling and food waste collection, addressing one of the most challenging aspects of urban waste management. The council has said that the new service will help Hull meet its recycling targets while reducing the amount of biodegradable waste sent to landfill.
"Food waste is one of the biggest opportunities we have to improve our recycling rates," said an East Riding Council spokesperson. "Around a third of household waste is food that could be composted or recycled, so these sessions are about showing people just how easy it is to make a difference."
What happens at the sessions?
Residents who attend the drop-in events can expect friendly, informal advice from council waste officers. Staff will be on hand to demonstrate how to use food waste caddies, explain what can and cannot be recycled, and answer any questions about the new collection arrangements.
There will also be practical tips on reducing food waste in the first place — from meal planning and smart shopping to creative ways to use up leftovers. The council estimates that the average UK household throws away around £700 worth of food each year, so the financial incentive to waste less is significant.
"We're not here to lecture anyone," the spokesperson added. "We know that changing habits takes time, and we want to make it as easy as possible for people. These sessions are a chance to chat, ask questions and pick up some useful ideas."
Where and when
The drop-in sessions are taking place throughout National Food Waste Action Week at community venues across the East Riding. Exact times and locations are available on the council's website and social media channels.
For residents in more rural parts of the East Riding who cannot attend in person, the council is also providing information online, including video guides to food waste recycling and downloadable resources for schools and community groups.
With food prices remaining high and environmental concerns at the forefront of public debate, the sessions offer a timely opportunity for East Yorkshire residents to learn how small changes in the kitchen can make a big difference — both to their household budgets and to the planet.