Keeping the garden tidy is an ongoing job that often results in piles of green waste littering the backyard. But why is it so important to separate green waste from other kinds of waste?
Nearly a third of garden and food waste ends up in landfills. As organic waste breaks down in landfill, it produces large quantities of the greenhouse gas methane, which is one of Aotearoa’s biggest contributors to global warming.
Separating green waste from other types of waste and then disposing of it correctly protects the environment and reduces our greenhouse gas emissions. Composting at home is a great way to create food for your garden. Local hardware stores sell a range for compost bins, for everyone from beginner gardeners to seasoned pro’s.
For those with too much green waste to fit in their home compost bins:
- Waste Management has a range of solutions.
- Drop off your garden wastes at Composting New Zealand. Normal household loads (1.8 m trailer) cost $15.
Every year, Waste Management produces 60,000 tonnes of compost from green waste, which gives back to the environment while keeping Hutt Valley locals’ gardens in top shape.

