Communal Recycling Innovation Challenge 2026

West London Waste Authority, in partnership with six boroughs (Brent, Harrow, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Ealing, and Richmond), is seeking innovative solutions to improve recycling and food waste capture in communal housing properties. Recycling performance in communal settings consistently lags behind kerbside collections, presenting a significant challenge for the sector. The authority invites proposals from waste and recycling companies, technology providers, behavioural specialists, housing and property tech providers, universities, start-ups, SMEs, and social enterprises. Sought solutions should address one or more outcomes: increasing recycling capture, boosting food waste participation, reducing contamination, improving resident engagement, generating operational insights through data and technology, and delivering scalable, cost-effective solutions replicable across London and beyond. Solutions may involve technology, infrastructure improvements, resident engagement strategies, digital platforms, operational enhancements, or behavioural interventions. The challenge operates in two stages: Stage 1 (Expression of Interest, closing 22 September 2026) requires a short overview including the challenge addressed, innovation summary, effectiveness evidence, and scalability potential. Stage 2 (Shortlisting and Innovation Pitch, estimated 20 October 2026) invites shortlisted organisations to submit detailed proposals and present to an evaluation panel to identify promising ideas for potential pilot projects and future implementation. Interested organisations should contact Alistair Green, Head of Municipal Waste Development, at alistairgreen@westlondonwaste.gov.uk for informal discussions.