Woolworths Food Waste Diversion

Woolworths Food Waste Diversion is a Source Separated Organic Waste project located across Woolworths' nationwide network of supermarkets and distribution centres in Australia. Registered in July 2016, the project does not occupy a single plot of land but rather integrates into the operational supply chain of over 1,000 stores. The project recently concluded its primary carbon abatement contract in June 2024, successfully delivering over 88,000 Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) to the Commonwealth.

The Carbon Credits (Source Separated Organic Waste) Methodology involves separating eligible organic material, such as unsold food, fruit, and vegetables, at the point of generation to prevent it from entering landfill. By diverting this waste, the project avoids the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas released when organic matter decomposes anaerobically in landfills. Instead, the waste is redirected to alternative treatments including open windrow composting, enclosed composting, and anaerobic digestion.

Given the project's nationwide scope, the environmental conditions vary significantly, ranging from the tropical climates of Queensland to the temperate zones of Tasmania. However, the operational "environment" is commercial rather than ecological. The project relies on store staff actively separating waste into specific organic bins. This diverted waste is then processed by third-party partners or used in innovative programs, such as the partnership with Goterra, which uses Black Soldier Fly larvae to consume food waste and produce protein and fertilizer.

The project is part of Woolworths' broader sustainability strategy, which includes the "Odd Bunch" range to sell imperfect produce and partnerships with food rescue organisations like OzHarvest to donate edible surplus. During the project's active crediting period, Woolworths reported diverting tens of thousands of tonnes of food waste annually, significantly reducing the company's Scope 3 emissions profile.