Compost giveaway to schools, community groups and charities

Update on Wednesday 6 April 2022

The scheme is oversubscribed with applications for our compost giveaway. We are unable to accept any more applications. If our scheme is reintroduced, we will update this page and our social media channels.

Food waste becomes compost

The food and garden waste we collect from Belfast households and businesses is used to produce compost. We'd like this waste to go full circle and help create a greener city. We're inviting schools, community groups and charities in Belfast to apply for free 1,000 litre bags of high quality compost.

Groups eligible to apply for free compost

The free compost scheme is open to schools, community groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations in Belfast. Businesses and individuals aren't eligible.

A group or school can apply for up to three bags of compost. We'll allocate compost on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis.

Delivering compost to a school or local group

If your group or school is allocated compost, a lorry will unload the compost using a crane at your delivery point. You must make sure there is suitable vehicle access at your delivery point.

How to apply for free compost

To apply, email wasteeducation@belfastcity.gov.uk.

Your email must include:

• your group or school's name and contact details, including a phone number
• group status such as school, registered charity or constituted group
• address in Belfast where you want compost to be delivered
• how your group will use the compost for example to grow fruit and vegetables or flowers 

If your group applies for more than one bag of compost, you should explain why the group needs additional bags.