Food Waste Requirements for Richmond Valley Businesses
From 1 July 2026, the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is introducing new Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) requirements for businesses.
Businesses that generate large amounts of food waste may need to separate food waste from general waste so it can be recycled into compost instead of being sent to landfill.
The requirements will be introduced in stages across NSW.
Check if your business is affected and learn what you need to do below.
At a glance
✅ New EPA food waste requirements commenced from 1 July 2026
✅ Applies to some businesses and organisations that generate food waste
✅ Requirements will be introduced in stages
✅ Food waste must be separated from general waste
✅ Support and resources are available
Does this apply to me?
The new requirements may apply to:
- Supermarkets
- Cafes and restaurants
- Clubs and hotels
- Hospitals
- Schools and institutions
- Food manufacturers
- Other businesses that generate significant food waste
Click the button below to check your eligibility using the NSW EPA FOGO Business Mandate Calculator.
Step 1
Check your obligations
Use the EPA calculator to determine whether the requirements apply to your business.
Step 2
Review your waste service
Speak with your waste contractor to ensure suitable food organics collection services are available.
Step 3
Set up food waste separation
Provide appropriate bins and signage for staff.
Step 4
Train your team
Ensure staff understand what can and can’t go into food organics bins.
Step 5
Start recycling food waste
Separate food waste from general waste and monitor contamination levels.
Resources for Businesses
Need Help?
Richmond Valley Council can provide information and connect businesses with available resources.
Waste and Resource Recovery Team
council@richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 6660-0300
Why this matters
Food waste sent to landfill creates greenhouse gas emissions and increases disposal costs.
Recovering food waste through organics recycling helps create useful compost products while reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill.
This supports Richmond Valley Council’s commitment to sustainable waste management and resource recovery.