Simpler Recycling for Businesses
New regulations will soon require businesses to separate recyclable materials from their general waste. This is part of the government’s Simpler Recycling policy, designed to make waste collections consistent across the country.
What does this mean for my business?
From the 31st March 2025, businesses with more than 10 full time equivalent staff will need to separate recyclable materials from general waste, ideally into 3 separate streams:
- Glass, metal and plastic
- Cardboard and paper
- Food waste
Businesses and other relevant non-domestic premises are legally required to comply with this new government requirement.
Where can I get help?
A good place to start is the Business of Recycling Website, which is part of the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) funded by DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs). The website provides guidance and resources for businesses (and other non-domestic premises such as schools and hospitals) on how to make the changes required. It also includes a waste calculator that shows the potential cost of your waste collection service, as well as ideas to improve waste efficiency.
The next important step is to contact your current waste collections provider and see if they offer additional services that can help you to comply with the new rules. If they are not able to assist you, you can search online for a supplier yourself. The Government recommends you check that your chosen supplier is on the Public Register of Waste Carriers, Brokers and Dealers.
If you want to learn more about the Simpler Recycling regulations for businesses you can at Simpler recycling: workplace recycling in England - GOV.UK
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