The new Simpler Recycling legislation: what you need to know

From 31^st March 2025 – so just a couple of months away – a new law will change the way businesses in England sort their waste and recycling.

The Simpler Recycling legislation will require businesses that employ 10 or more staff to sort their waste into a minimum of 3 different streams:

• Paper, card and all other dry recyclable materials (plastic, metal and glass)
• Food waste
• Residual (any remaining non-recyclable) waste

Here we’ll provide a clear and concise overview of the upcoming changes and what they mean for your business.

What is Simpler Recycling?

The Simpler Recycling initiative is part of the UK government's strategy to improve recycling rates and meet net zero commitments. Similar legislation has been in place in Scotland since 2014 and was recently introduced in Wales. This move therefore brings England closer to unified waste management practices across the UK. Full details are available on the Government website, but the key changes you need to be aware of are as follows. From 31st March 2025, you'll need to sort your waste into at least three main streams:

• Dry recyclables (paper, card, plastic, metal, and glass)

• Food waste
• Residual (non-recyclable) waste

Depending on your waste collector's requirements, you may need to further separate dry recyclables. For instance, paper and card might need to be kept separate from other materials. Dry recyclable waste includes:

• Glass: Bottles and jars

• Metals: Cans, tins, empty aerosols, aluminium foil and trays
• Plastic: Rinsed empty food containers and bottles
• Paper and cardboard: Newspapers, envelopes, boxes, and packaging

So, you may end up requiring different bins to separate your waste and recycling into the following categories:

• General waste
• Mixed recycling
• Food tins and drinks cans
• Glass bottles and jars
• Food waste
• Plastic packaging
• Paper and card

But again, this will depend on how your waste collector or local authority chooses to operate. Regardless, you will need a minimum of three or four bins in order to separate your waste and recycling correctly and comply with the new legislation.

What happens if you don’t comply with the Simpler Recycling legislation?

As Simpler Recycling is a legal requirement for all businesses who employ 10 or more people (and from 31^st March 2027, micro-firms, who have fewer than 10 employees, will also be included), there are consequences if you don’t comply. The new law gives the general public the power to report businesses who don’t comply, and the Environment Agency will take action against you.

As well as government guidance, the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) has developed the Business of Recycling Website, which offers help, resources, and a waste calculator to help you and your organisation understand potential costs and improve your waste efficiency.

Prepare for Simpler Recycling

To ensure your organisation is ready for these changes:

1. Assess your current waste management practices
2. Consult with your waste collector about their specific requirements
3. Educate your staff about the new waste separation rules
4. Consider appointing a 'recycling champion' to oversee implementation
5. Invest in appropriate bins and signage

We can ensure you have the right bins – shop our new range now, chosen specially to make compliance with the Simpler Recycling legislation easy and hassle-free

By embracing the 'Simpler Recycling' legislation, your organisation can play a crucial role in reducing waste, improving recycling rates, and contributing to the UK's environmental goals. Remember, the deadline is approaching quickly. Start preparing now to ensure a smooth transition come 31st March. By being proactive and well-informed, your business can lead the way in green waste management practices.