Cr Fry, alongside well-known Sydney sustainable coach Michael Mobbs, have been working on the project for 12 months, and have a series of prototypes ready to pitch to council.

Mr Mobbs, who has achieved acclaim for his off-grid terrace house in the inner Sydney suburb of Chippendale, said the wicking beds break down food waste into soil to provide an effective compost solution.

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"These aerobic, low maintenance devices not only create seating for businesses, but also reduces waste management bills and cools down city streets through plant growth providing shade," he said.

"In Chippendale, we're handling 300-400 kilolitres of food waste a week, and the resulting plant growth can lower surface temperature by 15 to 30 degrees Celsius."

Mr Mobbs said the wicking beds also combat the two common issues related to compost: stench and rodents.

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"As they're aerobic, there's plenty of places for the smell to dilute, and the worms feed on the soil," he said.

"The steel shell exterior keeps the beds rodent-proof, and the 10 systems in Chippendale have caused zero complaints about the smell."

Cr Fry said he's approached eight local cafe owners about the plan, all of whom have responded favourably to the idea.

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"They're cost efficient, built entirely of recyclable materials and with cooperation from council and local businesses, could prove a game-changing solution for food waste," he said.

Harvest Cafe head chef and co-owner Chris Ringrose is supportive of the idea, and already has a tailored compost strategy at the venue.

"We go through around 30 to 40 litres of compost a day, and these sites could provide welcome savings in waste management costs," Mr Ringrose said

"It'll also cut down waste going into landfill."