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Welcome to the Food Organics Recycling resource page
This resource page provides staff working in the shopping centres, access to essential information about the Food Organics Recycling Program. The program supports the centre's sustainability goals and helps businesses prepare for the NSW Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) mandate, which requires food businesses to separate food waste from other waste streams.
Explore Resources
NSW EPA FOGO Mandate
Find out more about the business food waste mandate.
Food Organics Recycling Quiz
Test your food organics recycling knowledge here.
Waste Signage
Physical copies can be collected from centre management office.
Food Organics Recycling Brochure
This brochure covers everything you need to know about the program.
Physical copies can be collected from centre management office.
GRIN Ambassador Brochure
This handbook is your guide to inspiring your team and driving impact.
Physical copies can be collected from centre management office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach out to centre management if you have any other questions.
Why are we introducing food organics recycling?
The NSW Government is implementing food waste separation mandates designed to encourage better waste separation and recycling. These changes could impact disposal costs for all businesses, making this the perfect time to improve our waste practices together.
The food organics recycling program will also
Reduce our collective environmental footprint
Position our shopping centre as a sustainability leader
What is best practice for food waste separation?
Set up bins near kitchen benches, dishwashers, close to where food waste is generated.
Set up signage on and/or above bins. If space is limited, place them at source points (sinks, staff room).
Empty food waste collected into the Food Organics bins in the bin area daily.
Communicate with your staff to ensure they are across the new waste stream and how to utilise it.
What happens to food waste after collection?
Collected food waste is taken to an organics recycling facility, where it’s processed into compost, soil enhancers, or renewable energy through anaerobic digestion.
What if our store has limited space for extra bins?
You can start small with a bench-top caddy in food prep areas or back-of-house kitchens. Over time, you can scale up as participation grows or space allows.
Will staff need extra time to separate food waste?
No, when bins are placed in convenient locations, sorting becomes part of the usual routine. Clear signage helps make it quick and easy.
Does food recycling attract pests or smell?
No, when managed correctly. Using compostable caddy liners that comply with Australian Standard AS 4736-2006 and emptying bins daily helps control odours and hygiene.