Simpler Recycling reforms – is your business ready?
The new Simpler Recycling reforms, introduced by the UK government are coming into force this month and aim to streamline recycling processes for businesses, make recycling more straightforward, reduce landfill waste and support environmental sustainability across England.
What’s changing?
With the upcoming changes, all businesses, healthcare establishments, schools and other ‘non-household municipal premises’ with 10 or more full-time employees will be required to separate their recyclable materials. This means stricter rules on what can and cannot be disposed of in general waste, ensuring businesses take a more sustainable approach to waste management.
Materials for separate collection include:
Paper and cardboard
Cartons (i.e. Tetrapak)
Metals (i.e. cans, tins, foils)
Plastic (i.e. pots, tubs and trays)
Glass (i.e. bottles and jars)
Businesses will also be required to separate their food waste, no matter how small the quantity they generate. Included in the food waste stream are all food intended for human or household pet consumption and biodegradable material such as fruit and vegetable skins, tea bags, bones, among others. This is to avoid as much food waste as possible to end up in landfill.
Timescales
By March 31, 2025: Businesses and relevant non-domestic premises (such as schools and hospitals) must arrange for the collection of core recyclable waste streams, including glass, metal, plastic, paper and card, and food waste.
By March 31, 2026: Local authorities are mandated to collect these core recyclable materials from all households, introducing weekly food waste collections for most homes.
By March 31, 2027: Micro-firms (businesses with fewer than ten full-time equivalent employees) are required to comply with the recycling regulations. Additionally, kerbside plastic film collections from both businesses and households will be introduced.
Benefits to your business
Simplifies and standardises waste collection and sorting
Reduces confusion about recyclable materials, improving compliance
Increases recycling rates which will lower your waste disposal costs
Smaller businesses will be able to customise waste solutions
Larger companies can scale recycling efforts efficiently
Enhanced business reputation and brand image
Strengthens commitment to sustainability and social value
Aligns with circular economy goals, such as zero waste to landfill
Appeals to customers, partners, and investors
Nigel Ingram, General Manager at Cawleys said, “The government’s Simpler Recycling initiative is designed to make recycling more uniform, accessible, and effective for businesses across the country. We understand this process can be daunting and there’s a lot for businesses to take on board. Our aim therefore is to help organisations navigate these changes and provide guidance and support to help them transition smoothly. Our expert team are on hand to offer advice on the best recycling solutions and ensuring compliance with the new legislation while maximising sustainability efforts.”
How can Cawleys support your business?
We’ll guide you through the process and provide one-to-one advice, helping you create an efficient waste recycling strategy that suits your business and integrates sustainable practices seamlessly into your daily operations.
Visit www.cawleys.co.uk/simpler-recycling call us on 0845 260 2000 or email internalsales@cawleys.co.uk and one of our team will be happy to assist you.