Hidden down a cul-de-sac or on the edge of a school field, something magical is happening in West Auckland. What was once considered waste is now a key ingredient in nourishing the community—thanks to Second Bite Composting.
What is Second Bite Composting?
Second Bite Composting is a food scraps collection service designed for West Auckland businesses. Instead of sending food scraps to landfill, where they produce methane as they decompose, Second Bite Composting redirects these valuable resources to local school and community gardens. This initiative cuts waste, reduces carbon footprints, and supports food-growing education in the community.
Who is it for?
This service is for any business that generates food scraps, whether it’s from a lunchroom or a kitchen where food production is the main operation. By participating, businesses not only reduce their environmental impact but also contribute to local sustainability efforts.
How does it work?
EcoMatters Environment Trust, with the support of the Rosebank Business Association, launched Second Bite Composting in October 2023. The first step was conducting waste audits with local businesses to determine the volume and types of food scraps being produced. These insights helped shape the composting initiative, ensuring that food waste is effectively diverted to gardens where it can be turned into nutrient-rich compost.
Bidfresh’s Role in the Initiative
As a key supplier in the food industry, Bidfresh saw the potential to make a meaningful difference. Since coming on board, Bidfresh has helped keep 24,000 kg of food scraps out of landfill in just one year. Instead of contributing to waste, these food scraps have been transformed into compost, enriching soil and supporting the growth of fresh, local produce.
For Bidfresh, sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a responsibility. By participating in Second Bite Composting, the company is not only reducing waste but also fostering community resilience.
The Environmental Impact
The numbers speak for themselves. Composting 24,000 kg of food scraps locally has resulted in a saving of 17,107 kg of CO2 emissions—the equivalent of running a gas BBQ for an astonishing 4,602 hours! By choosing to compost locally instead of sending food waste to landfill or distant composting facilities, businesses like Bidfresh are taking direct action to mitigate climate change.
More Than Just Compost: Building Community Connections
The impact of Second Bite Composting extends beyond environmental benefits. When volunteers and students work in these gardens, they gain hands-on experience in growing food, strengthening social bonds, and fostering a deeper understanding of food sustainability.
Additionally, with rising food insecurity in West Auckland, access to healthy, homegrown produce is more important than ever. Community gardens play a vital role in providing fresh food options to those who might otherwise struggle due to cost-of-living challenges or housing restrictions that prevent personal gardening.
What’s Next?
Currently, Second Bite Composting is working closely with businesses along Rosebank Road and supporting five participating school and community gardens. With growing interest from both businesses and local gardens, the initiative is expanding daily.
Bidfresh is proud to be part of this solution, proving that small changes—like composting food scraps—can have a significant impact on both the environment and the community.
Want to make a difference? Join the movement today and help turn food scraps into a resource that gives back!
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