Whakatāne District Council’s incredibly popular Subsidised Home Composting Scheme is back for a limited time.

The scheme was first introduced in 2019 and saw huge community demand for the subsidised home composting units.

This year people can choose one of four home composting solutions, including small and large compost bins, Bokashi bench-top units and worm farms (worms not included), for only $15.

Council Waste Management and Minimisation Coordinator Sheree Kearney said Council is working to reduce kerbside food waste and home composting is an easy at-home solution.

“The average household throws away 86 kilogrammes of edible food every year,” said Ms Kearney.

“This food often ends up in our landfills, along with the rest of our rubbish, where it decomposes and releases methane. Methane is a harmful greenhouse gas and contributes towards climate change.

“Home composting is an easy way to prevent food from entering the landfill. You also end up with an awesome product to feed your garden.

“If you have a vegetable garden this is another way you can become more sustainable and environmentally friendly.”

Numbers of composting units are strictly limited and are only available for one week.

Home composting units are available for purchase from the Whakatāne Transfer Station on Te Tahi Street and the Murupara Service Centre from August 29 to September 2 between 10am and 4.30pm – EFTPOS only.