This guidance supports EU Member States in implementing the mandatory separate collection of bio-waste under the revised Waste Framework Directive (WFD), which applies from 2024 onwards. While the obligation presents operational and organisational challenges, it also offers a major opportunity to improve soil health through the production of high-quality compost and digestate. Developed by the European Compost Network’s Task Group on Separate Collection, which brings together experts from various countries, the document compiles best practices, incentive schemes and awareness-raising strategies to enhance system performance.
The guidance is designed for policymakers, public authorities, waste operators and researchers involved in bio-waste management. It focuses on the two main bio-waste fractions: garden waste and food waste. Garden waste collection is already well established in many countries through door-to-door schemes or civic amenity sites. In contrast, food waste collection is more complex due to higher contamination risks from plastics, metals and glass, and requires strong citizen participation, clear communication and effective monitoring systems.
By identifying common challenges and presenting practical solutions, this guidance provides actionable recommendations to improve the quality and efficiency of food waste collection and ensure its successful recycling into compost and digestate.
Publication year: 2022
Language: EN
Published by: European Compost Network (ECN)
Keywords: separate collection, bio-waste management, food waste collection, compost and digestate, Waste Framework Directive, contamination prevention, awareness raising campaigns, incentive schemes, door-to-door systems, recycling quality
