Simpler Recycling for Businesses in England Starts Today, 31 March 2025
From 31 March 2025, all businesses in England employing 10 or more staff members must comply with updated recycling regulations designed to improve waste management and enhance workplace recycling rates.
Key Requirements for Businesses
Under the new rules, companies are required to separately collect the following waste streams:
- Dry recyclables – plastic, metal, and glass
- Paper and card*
- Food waste
- Residual (non-recyclable) waste
*Note: Paper and cardboard must be collected separately unless your waste contractor allows them to be combined with other dry recyclables.
Businesses retain the flexibility to determine the size of bins and collection frequency, allowing them to tailor waste management solutions to their operational needs.
Government’s Commitment to a Sustainable Future
Mary Creagh, Minister for the Circular Economy, emphasised the government’s dedication to tackling waste:
“We are committed to moving away from a throwaway culture, improving recycling rates that have stagnated for too long, and fostering economic growth through our Plan for Change.
By streamlining workplace recycling, we are making it easier for businesses to participate, leading to significant environmental benefits, cost savings, and economic expansion.”
Regulatory Oversight and Compliance
The Environment Agency (EA) has been designated as the official regulator responsible for enforcing the new workplace recycling legislation.
Future Recycling Measures
- By 31 March 2026 – These requirements will extend to households across the UK. Local councils must introduce separate food waste collections unless they are already in place. Some authorities may be granted transitional arrangements to delay enforcement.
- By 31 March 2027 – Kerbside plastic film collection will be introduced for both workplaces and households.
- By 31 March 2027 – Small businesses with fewer than 10 employees will also need to comply with the core recycling requirements.
These legislative updates mark a major milestone towards a circular economy, making recycling more accessible and efficient for businesses and households alike.
How to Prepare for the Changes?
Affordable Waste Management is ready to help your business set up an effective commercial waste management system in line with the new regulations.
Get a free quote today!