About This Resource

The Highland Community Composting Resource exists to support communities across the Highlands to reduce organic waste, build healthy soils, and strengthen local food growing. It brings together practical guidance, case studies, and tools to help groups of all sizes start, grow, or improve their composting projects. Our aim is to make community composting easier, more accessible, and more impactful across the region.

How It Started

This resource was originally developed by Zero Waste Scotland, in partnership with Highland Council and the Highland Good Food Partnership (HGFP), to meet the growing interest in community-led composting and regenerative local food systems. Their early work involved gathering evidence, engaging with communities, and supporting projects across the Highlands.

Further development took place through the Highland Community Waste Partnership, a three-year, community-led programme funded by The National Lottery Community Fund (2022–2025). This programme helped expand training, support, and collaboration around composting, food waste reduction, and local growing.

In November 2025, the resource was transferred from Zero Waste Scotland to the HGFP, with support from the Community Led Local Development Fund administered by the Highlands & Islands Climate Hub. As the regional network for a fair, sustainable, and resilient food system, HGFP is now responsible for keeping this resource up-to-date and relevant for communities across the Highlands.

We are committed to ensuring this resource continues to grow and evolve as community composting expands across the region. Our focus is to provide clear, practical information that empowers communities to take action, improve soil health, and strengthen local food systems from the ground up.