There is currently no legal requirement on businesses to separate dry recycling or food waste. To streamline recycling processes and enhance environmental sustainability, the UK Government has introduced the ‘Simpler Recycling’ initiative, set to start taking effect on March 31st 2025. This legislation aims to standardise recycling practices across England, making it easier for both households and businesses to manage waste effectively.
Simpler Recycling timeline
Key components of the Simpler Recycling legislation
All workplaces, including businesses and non-domestic premises, will be legally required to separate waste into specific categories:
Dry recyclable materials: Plastic, metal, glass, paper, and card.
Food waste: Must be separated from other waste streams.
Residual (non-recyclable) waste: Items that cannot be recycled.
Under this guidance, most businesses (unless exempt) will now be required to have four waste collections with paper and card being recycled in a separate waste stream to other dry recycling.
The above infographic shows the default recycling waste collection setup under the Simpler Recycling initiative.
Waste collectors can also undertake a co-collection exemption assessment if they believe that there will be no negative environmental impact for your business to recycle paper and card within the same waste stream as plastic, metal and glass. This exemption assessment would be carried out based supplier judgement.
Waste collectors that wish to collect paper and card with other dry mixed recycling will be required to complete a written assessment. This must show that co-collection is technically practicable, economically practicable and has an environmental benefit. For more information on these categories, visit the Government website here: Collecting paper and card with other dry recyclable materials: written assessments – GOV.UK
The infographic below shows the default waste collection setup with co-collection under the Simpler Recycling initiative.
Implications for businesses
Businesses are encouraged to proactively prepare for these changes by:
Actions for workplaces | |
1. | Check if you need to make changes |
2. | Identify your waste streams |
3. | Set up new collections |
4. | Educate your staff and customers |
5. | Keep track of your recycling and food waste |
Need help with any of the above steps? Contact us today – we can help you organise compliant waste collections in time for the Government deadline.
Simpler Recycling Compliance factors
To ensure this initiative is followed by businesses, the Environment Agency will be able to issue compliance notices against any party, including waste collectors and waste producers.
Summary
The ‘Simpler Recycling’ initiative represents a significant step toward a more consistent and environmentally friendly waste management system in England, benefiting both the community and the planet. By embracing these reforms, businesses can contribute to a more sustainable future and potentially reduce waste management costs through more efficient recycling practices.
Contact us
Need to speak to a waste management expert about the Simpler Recycling initiative and how it impacts your business utility costs? Speak with our team today, we can help create a tailored and compliant waste solution to fit your business waste needs.
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