Bio Capital has been awarded a new contract by Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for the collection and treatment of food waste across its sites.
The initial 36-month contract will see food waste from the Trust’s hospitals diverted from landfill or incineration and instead processed at Bio Capital’s state-of-the-art Emerald Biogas anaerobic digestion (AD) facility in Newton Aycliffe.
Here, the facility will convert the waste into renewable energy and nutrient-rich biofertiliser, supporting both the NHS’s Net Zero ambitions and the UK’s broader circular economy goals.
Food waste will be collected using Bio Capital’s fleet of low-emission compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, further reducing the environmental impact of the service.
In addition, Bio Capital will provide training and engagement support to Trust staff to help improve food waste segregation and maximise recycling rates.
This new agreement builds on Bio Capital’s strong track record of working with public sector organisations, including multiple NHS Trusts and local authorities, to deliver innovative and responsible food waste management solutions.
George O’Malley, Chief Operations Officer at Bio Capital, commented: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust - an organisation that shares our commitment to sustainability and innovation.
"This contract is about more than just waste collection; it’s about transforming waste into renewable energy, reducing emissions, and supporting the NHS’s journey to Net Zero. Bio Capital’s facility in Newton Aycliffe is ideally placed to deliver both environmental and operational benefits for the Trust.”
Jason Mitchell, Waste manager for Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, added: “This partnership with Bio Capital is a significant step forward in our sustainability strategy. We are committed to urgent action to reach net zero - cutting emissions across our operations and supply chain.
"In addition, this partnership helps the Trust move towards its ambition of Zero Waste by 2040 – where items surplus to requirements become a resource in another part of the system. From clean air initiatives to award-winning carbon reduction frameworks, we are driving sustainable change across the NHS and beyond. We’re excited to work with a partner that brings both expertise and a shared vision for a greener NHS.”
Food waste fuels a greener future for Newcastle hospitals
