ANYBODY wondering just how efficient is domestic recycling will find some of the answers on the sides of a new fleet of recycling collection vehicles being introduced to local streets by waste collection company SUEZ, in partnership with Somerset Council.

For instance, a key message on the new vehicles is the fact that one kitchen caddy of food waste could generate enough electricity to power a lightbulb for an entire day, highlighting what a difference everyday recycling can make.

A SUEZ spokesperson said the launch of the new fleet of food waste collection vehicles ‘marks a major milestone in the county’s journey toward a greener, more sustainable future’.

They said: “The introduction of the vehicles is part of an improved recycling service for residents living in communal properties such as flats and houses of multiple occupancy.

“Every household in Somerset now has the opportunity to recycle food waste, alongside plastic, metals, cartons, cardboard, paper, and glass.”

The newly introduced vehicles feature eye-catching livery designed to remind residents why food waste recycling is so important.

Illustrations on the trucks explain the journey of food waste - from kitchen caddy to the production of green energy and fertiliser, to remind people of the positive impact of their food waste recycling efforts.

SUEZ Somerset contract director Matthew Canning said: "We are proud to support Somerset Council in delivering this important service to every household.

“By making food waste recycling simple and visible, we are helping residents play a direct role in generating renewable energy for a more sustainable county.”

Somerset Council executive Cllr Richard Wilkins said: "This is a significant step forward for the county.

“Expanding food waste collections to all households means we can reduce waste, cut emissions, and turn something often thrown away into a valuable resource."

In a playful touch, the vehicle livery also showcases a cast of food waste characters familiar to some residents from recent YouTube and ITV-X advertising campaigns.

The characters aim to make food waste recycling more accessible and memorable for all ages.

Residents are encouraged to make full use of their food waste caddies and take part in the service, helping Somerset move closer to being a sustainable county.

Further information about recycling and rubbish collections, including what can be accepted, and collection calendars, can be found online.

SUEZ, which serves 385,000 households in the county, signed a 10-year, £24 million contract with Somerset Council in 2020 to collect rubbish, recycling, and garden waste.

Following claims of ‘significant financial losses’, a July 2024 agreement added £47 million in extra payments over six years to ensure the continuity of the Somerset service.

In the UK, SUEZ’s recycling and recovery operations employ more than 7,000 people, operating across hundreds of sites and handling approximately 11 million tons of waste materials every year, a significant proportion of the UK’s total waste.

Through collection, treatment, recycling, and logistics operations, SUEZ serves more than 30,000 business customers as well as millions of households.