As of 1 January 2024, organic waste recycling is mandatory in France under new 'compost obligatoire' rules.With support from the government’s Green Fund, municipalities must provide residents with ways to sort bio-waste, which includes food scraps, vegetable peels, expired food and garden waste.Households and businesses are required to dispose of organic matter either in a dedicated small bin for home collection or at a municipal collection point.
Previously, only those who generated over five tonnes of organic waste per year were required to separate it.The waste will then be turned into biogas or compost to replace chemical fertilisers.
Alternatively, it can be composted at home.The obligation is currently on local authorities to provide an easy means for households to compost or separate organic waste.While facilities are rolled out, there will not be fines imposed for non-compliance.
It is yet to be seen whether stricter rules will be imposed in future. Organic waste from food and gardens accounts for almost one-third of household waste.