Each year, the UK produces almost 10 millions of tonnes of food waste. Many councils collect food waste from households for free and turn it into biofuel and slurry for farmers. Although this is better than sending it to landfill, it still produces high emissions and pollution.
But what if we took a circular approach and transformed food scraps into rich, microbe-packed soil to support local ecosystems? Soil Squad CIC is doing just that. Come and visit their stall at the next Harpenden Sustainability Market on the 16th of March and find out how you can join them in building a city where food waste fuels the future.
The community interest company collects food scraps from the local community on an electric trike, and composts them at its community hub on Sandridge Road Allotments in St Albans. Once the waste is composted, they deliver the nutrient-rich compost to local growers and schools. This process closes the loop on food waste, reduces landfill emissions, enriches depleted soils, and supports resilient, regenerative food systems.
The CIC’s work aligns with the district’s sustainability goals, helping businesses cut emissions, schools to educate the next generation, and communities reconnect with nature.
Less than a year old, Soil Squad CIC was set up by founder and director Vicky Gutteridge in July 2024. She is joined by directors Karin Stub and Suzelie Gundry, as well as some volunteers. The Community Composting Hub at Sandridge Road Allotments was set up in December after they received funding from St Albans Greener Together Net Zero Fund.
When it comes to the market, the team loves its strong sense of community and shared commitment to positive environmental change. They say, ‘It’s a space that supports local businesses, reduces waste, and promotes sustainable living in a really tangible way to people who may not otherwise have sought out a sustainable product or solution.’
Soil Squad CIC rates fellow market stallholders tommy & lottie for their lovely, well-made clothes that last instead of cheap fashion fixes that fall apart after a few washes. They say, ‘they don’t do fast fashion, and they make sure everything is produced in a way that’s fair to the people making it. Their designs are inspired by nature, and they actually give back by supporting wildlife and conservation projects. Their wildflower seed cards are my go-to buy for friends and family. It’s a really decent company doing things the right way.’
Their best eco tip? Try blending your coffee grounds with dried leaves or straw to create a nutrient-rich mulch!
If you want to learn more about soil and composting techniques for your food scraps then check out the Soil Squad CIC’s workshops and talks. Keep an eye on their website for new events. You can visit the team in action at Sandridge Road Allotments, Marshall Avenue, St Albans, Herts or get in touch by emailing hello@soilsquad.uk.
Come and say hello to the team and browse other local eco and food stalls that promote a more sustainable lifestyle at the market on the 16th of March. Visit our markets page for the full schedule of dates.
