Get ready for the upcoming changes to recycling legislation in England, set to take effect in 2025. Stay ahead of the curve and make sure your business is fully prepared for these major updates to the recycling system.
All businesses and workplaces in England will be affected by Simpler Recycling, but the timeline for businesses differs. Don’t worry, though – we’ve got you covered.
31
MARCH
2025
Businesses with ten or more employees
Businesses with ten or more full-time employees must separate plastic, paper and cardboard, glass, metal and food waste from general waste, saving valuable resources from going to waste.
31
MARCH
2027
Businesses with fewer than ten employees
Businesses with fewer than ten employees must separate plastic, paper and cardboard, glass, metal and food waste from general waste, saving valuable resources from going to waste.
What is Simpler Recycling?
In October 2023, the UK Government introduced the new Simpler Recycling legislation. All businesses and workplaces in England (with ten or more full-time employees) must implement separate food waste and recycling collections by the end of March 2025.
This new legislation aims to clear up confusion over recyclable and non-recyclable materials and standardise recycling practices for homes, workplaces, and schools.
For most businesses, the biggest change is that general waste bins can no longer be used for any recycling. Any recyclable materials currently disposed of in general waste must be separated out and arranged for proper collection.
Dry Mixed Recycling
Dry mixed recycling such as, plastic, metal, paper and cardboard and glass must be collected in the same bin.
Paper & Cardboard
Paper and cardboard may have to be collected separately to your dry mixed recycling. This will be subject to a co-collection assessment to check if it is technically, environmentally, and economically practical to do so.
Food Waste
All food waste, such as sandwiches, fruit and vegetables, tea bags and plate scrapings must be separated from general waste.
General Waste
General waste is all non-recyclable waste.
Simpler Recycling isn’t just about waste; it’s about making a lasting difference for the environment and your business.
What does this mean for your business?
As a minimum your business will require separate containers for the collection of Dry Mixed Recycling, Food Waste & General Waste.
Dry Mixed Recycling
You will need a mixed recycling bin for plastic, metal and glass.
Paper & Cardboard
You may need a separate paper & cardboard bin.
Food Waste
You will need a food waste bin and in some cases a kitchen caddy.
General Waste
You will need a general waste bin for all non-recyclable waste.
What your business needs, we have you covered.
Contact us today to find the perfect bin for your business.
If a business chooses not to separate its waste under the new Simpler Recycling legislation, it risks non-compliance with the law, which can result in fines and enforcement action from local authorities. The new rules require businesses to separate plastic, cans, paper, cardboard, and food waste for recycling. Failure to do so means waste collectors may refuse collection, leading to operational disruptions and increased costs for waste disposal.
Simpler Recycling FAQs
Get all the answers you need with our Simpler Recycling FAQ guide. From understanding the new regulations to sorting your waste correctly, our guide makes it easy to navigate the changes and stay compliant.
With over 25 years of experience, Mountain Recycling has been the go-to provider for skip hire in Lincolnshire, serving both residential and commercial clients. Let us be your trusted partner on the journey to compliance and sustainability.
