Swindon Borough Council will finish delivering the service to 11,000 flats across the town next week, following the launch of food waste collections for most residential properties earlier in 2024.
The rollout to flats began in June 2025 in line with updated national guidance.
Councillor Chris Watts, cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “I would like to thank and recognise our officers whose incredible work means we have been able to deliver the full rollout to flats ahead of the national deadline.
“It is no easy feat and is something other councils have been struggling to meet.”
A pilot scheme covering around 500 flats was used to identify the best approach for multi-occupancy buildings.
This trial was considered a success and informed the council’s final delivery model.
Cllr Watts added: “Every caddy filled is money saved and carbon cut and our residents are making a huge difference.
“This progress is thanks to residents in both houses and flats playing their part.”
The council has already recorded savings of more than £1 million in waste disposal costs since first introducing food waste collections.
In total, the estimated cost avoidance stands at more than £1.45 million, thanks to thousands of tonnes of food waste being diverted from incineration.
Cllr Watts said: “The data shows that the food waste collection service we rolled out two years ago is delivering on our plan for a Greener Swindon, while saving money for local taxpayers.
“None of this would be possible without residents doing their bit every week.
“But we know too much food waste still ends up in black bins. Every tonne we divert to recycling saves more than £140 for local taxpayers, which is why I’m urging every household to make full use of the food waste service.”
All food waste collected by the council is sent to Codford Biogas, an anaerobic digestion facility.
The waste is processed into nutrient-rich fertiliser for nearby farms and converted into biogas to generate renewable energy for the region.
Cllr Watts reminded residents that all cooked and uncooked food waste is accepted, including peelings, leftovers, meat, dairy, and bread.
He said caddies can be ordered through the council’s website and that the Waste Wizard tool offers clear advice on what can be recycled.