The Norwich-based nursery has said that food waste is often an inevitable part of their business due to the unpredictable eating habits of young children. Factors such as varying appetites, food preferences, and the novelty of trying new foods contribute to leftovers. Additionally, portion sizes may not always align with a child’s consumption capacity, leading to some uneaten food.
Busy Bees has installed food waste bins as standard in their nurseries so that food waste can be collected separately. The one exception to this is when space for external bins is a limiting factor.
They have also asked 1st Waste and Keenan Recycling to develop a strategy which showcases how food waste is being reduced and how it is being treated as sustainably as possible, whilst recognising that some degree of waste is an inherent challenge in ensuring that all children have access to a balanced and appealing diet.
Hollie Pomfret, who led the project at Busy Bees, explained: “We adopted a step-by-step process, and now our children are actively participating in recycling efforts. This not only helps us manage our waste but also instils a strong awareness of the environmental impact of waste from a young age.
“We spoke to the children about how we might turn leftover food into new food and displayed their pictures on the bins. The children loved asking questions about what waste goes where. It was heartening to see their engagement, with comments like ‘It’s going to make us new food.’”
Gemma Roberts, 1st Waste’s commercial director, added: “Educating the children on how food waste becomes new energy gives the children an insight into recycling, that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. It’s pleasing to be part of a project that fosters environmental responsibility in children’s formative years.”
‘A sustainable partnership’
The collaboration between Busy Bees, 1st Waste, and Keenan Recycling aims to reduce landfill waste and deliver three benefits:
- Renewable energy: Food waste is converted into electricity sufficient to power numerous homes.
- Environmental education: Children actively participate in sustainable practices.
- Community Impact: Busy Bees fosters a culture of environmental responsibility in the local communities they operate in.
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