A detailed characterisation of household food waste and the implications of sorting behaviour on potentials for anaerobic digestion and nutrient recovery

This study investigates household food waste (HH FW) generation in two socio-economically different areas in Lübeck, Germany. The applied waste characterisation protocol provided a detailed insight into the generation and separation behavior of FW collected in the municipal collection system. In total, four characterisation campaigns were conducted in both areas. Results show that about 47% of FW is avoidable. The socio-economic low area generated more FW with a lower source-separation performance. The share of avoidable FW was also higher in this area. The most common fractions found in total FW were fruit and vegetables, leftovers and canned food and bread. In addition to a substantial avoidable fraction, these commodity groups need to be prioritised in management strategies, such as for anaerobic digestion or composting.