The Bio Capital Group deal will run for another two years, and is expected to convert 12,000 tonnes of food into 100% renewable power.
As a result, carbon emissions in the borough could plummet by 3,123.97 CO2e tonnes. The agreement will also contribute to the area’s circular economy, reducing the amount of rubbish which is discarded.
Bio Capital’s East London biogas plant at Dagenham will continue to receive deliveries of food waste from across the local authority jurisdiction, where this waste will produce biomethane and biofertiliser.
The programme has already proven highly successful, with a 65% increase in food waste processing over the last year alone. Expansion since launch now means 55 schools are currently engaged with the project, with plans to increase coverage to include housing estates, local businesses, private residential neighbourhoods and flats above shops. Investment has also transformed the livery on refuse vehicles administered by the council.
‘We are excited to continue our partnership with Bio Capital, whose dedication to sustainability is helping us work towards our goal of becoming net zero by 2030,’ said Cllr Louise Krupski, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Climate Action.
‘This partnership plays a key role in boosting recycling in Lewisham, keeping food waste out of landfills, and turning it into clean energy,’ she continued. ‘By working together, we are making real progress toward a greener future. This renewed agreement shows the success of our efforts so far, and we look forward to continuing to support our residents in making sustainable choices to create a cleaner Lewisham.’
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