Cheltenham Borough Council is celebrating having kept 23 tonnes of food waste out of landfill in the first two days of its recycling scheme.
Instead, the scheme has directed the leftovers to food waste management firms for energy extraction.
The scheme was controversial, as residents complained that they had nowhere to store another recycling bin, accusing the council of overkill.
However, a council spokesman said that the first two days of the scheme have proved its value, saving up to £1,300 on landfill tax and helping the environment.
"We're pleased with the results… to think this would have all gone to landfill is frightening," the spokesman said.
"Local residents should be pleased that on only day two of the scheme, they have made such a big difference."
This follows news that a recycling plant in Shropshire has been given approval by the local council, despite objections from local residents.
Typical Guttridge equipment used in the food waste management industry includes:
