Garden waste
You can recycle garden waste using either biodegradable bags or the new reusable bags. You can also buy subsidised home composting bins or join a local community composting scheme to compost kitchen and garden waste.
Green garden waste collections
We offer two options to residents: reusable and biodegradable bags.
We would encourage you to use the reusable sack where this suits your needs, and we will collect your garden waste in either or both of these. The garden waste collected will then be composted and used in local parks and green spaces.
If you're new to the scheme
If you haven't used the service before and would like to take part, contact the call centre on 020 7926 9000.
How the scheme works
Households are provided with 10 biodegradable bags and a reusable bag. The Biodegradable bags have to be kept in a dark dry space until they are needed to prevent degrading in storage.
You don't need to wait until the reusable bag is full and it is better that we collect the waste before it starts to break down. When you are ready for a collection call 020 7926 9000 to arrange a collection date.
What can I put in my garden waste sack?
- Grass cuttings
- Leaves and twigs
- Weeds, plants and flowers
- Hedge trimmings
What can't I put in my garden waste sack?
- Kitchen waste (such as peelings.)
- General rubbish
- Soil, rubble, large branches
- Disposable nappies
- Any other recycling
How to request additional bags
Contact the call centre on 020 7926 9000, email recycling@lambeth.gov.uk or complete our online green garden waste form to request additional bags.
Christmas trees
Each year we run a Christmas tree recycling scheme in January. Keep an eye out for details of the services available during December and January each year on this website.
Composting at home
Home composting can produce a rich soil improver for your garden, providing a product which you know and trust. By composting, you can also help to reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfill. Compost your kitchen and garden waste by using a compost bin or by joining a local community composting scheme.
We have joined up with Recycle Now Home Composting Campaign to offer residents a compost bin at subsidised prices. This means you can buy a standard 330 litre compost bin for just £12 instead of the regular price of £50.
How to get a bin
To get your bin at the subsidised price you must be a Lambeth resident. You will need to quote the reference 'leap' when you order.
To order your subsidised compost bin call Recycle Now on 0845 077 0757, or download the compost bin offer leaflet for more information and to order by post.
For more information on home composting or to order your bin online visit www.recyclenow.com/compost
The cost for the subsidised bins are:
- 220 litre compost bin: £9.50 + free delivery
- 330 litre compost bin: £12 + free delivery
- 250 litre thermo compost bin: £40 + free delivery
You can also get a kitchen caddy for only £4 when you buy a bin.
Top ten home composting tips
See our top ten useful tips on how to produce your own quality compost at home.