24 August 2023
Of icial information request 8140012290
(Please quote this in any correspondence)
Andy
By email:
[FYI request #23555 email]
Tēnā koe Andy
Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987
Re: Food Scraps Collections Programme
Thank you for your email dated July 21, 2023, in which you requested information about the
Food Scraps Collections Programme. The specific details of your request and our response
are below.
The Food Scraps Collections Programme holds significant importance in fostering
sustainable waste management practices, reducing landfill waste, and promoting
environmental conservation. Recognizing the significance of this initiative, I am eager
to better understand the underlying financial aspects to ensure its effectiveness and
feasibility as a long-term solution.
Therefore, I kindly request the following information:
A. Business Case: I request a copy of the business case or any relevant documentation
that outlines the objectives, scope, and projected benefits of the Food Scraps
Collections Programme. Please include details on the anticipated environmental
impact and the expected benefits to the community.
The business case is attached in the document called “AC BC Addendum food scraps
UPDATED 220303”.
We would also draw your attention to the central government’s recently released Waste
Strategy which has mandated collections from 2027 for councils, including Auckland
Council. More information on the Waste Strategy can be found here:
https://environment.govt.nz/what-government-is-doing/areas-of-work/waste/improving-
household-recycling-and-food-scrap-collections/
We have also attached a cost-benefit analysis of an organic waste collection service in
Auckland prepared in 2017. Please refer to the document called “Food waste collection
CBA_following CE review final 20112017”.
B. Cost Benefit Analysis: I would like to obtain the comprehensive cost-benefit
analysis conducted for the Food Scraps Collections Programme. This analysis
Private Bag 92300, Auckland 1142 |
aucklandcouncil.govt.nz |
Ph 09 301 0101
should cover the financial costs, potential savings, and any quantifiable benefits,
both in the short-term and long-term.
High-level benefits are outlined below, and additional information can be found in the
Business Case (section 5.3) and the cost-benefit analysis attached.
•
Contribution to meeting the council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Plan
target for reduction in residential waste to landfil (from 160 kg per capita per year to
110 kg per capita per year).
•
Diversion of organic material from landfil per year.
•
Reduction in carbon emissions from waste by 125,000 tonnes CO2-equivalent per
year.
•
Recovery of energy and returning organic matter to soil through processing food
scraps.
•
Refuse collection and disposal cost savings.
•
Waste Disposal Levy and Emission Trading Scheme cost savings.
C. CAPEX and OPEX Costs: Kindly provide a detailed breakdown of the Capital
Expenditure (CAPEX) and Operating Expenditure (OPEX) costs associated with the
implementation and maintenance of the Food Scraps Collections Programme. It
would be helpful to have a clear understanding of how these costs are being
allocated and financed.
The operating cost for a full year of operation is dependent on the volume of food scraps
collected. At this stage, we estimate that cost to be in the range of $23 to $28 mil ion per
annum.
Some information in the attachments is withheld under section 7(2)(i) Local Government
Of icial Information and Meetings Act 1987, namely it is necessary to withhold the information
to enable the local authority to carry on, without prejudice or disadvantage, negotiations
(including commercial and industrial negotiations).
Decisions relating to the information that is being released to you were made by
Parul Sood,
General Manager - Waste Solutions.
You have the right to complain to the Ombudsman if you believe we have not responded
appropriately to your request. Information about how to make a complaint is available at
www.ombudsman.parliament.nz or freephone 0800 802 602.
If you have any further queries, please contact me on 09 301 0101 quoting official information
request number 8140012290.
Ngā mihi
Amanda Pil ay
Privacy and Official Information Business Partner
Governance Services
Private Bag 92300, Auckland 1142 |
aucklandcouncil.govt.nz |
Ph 09 301 0101