Simpler Recycling for Businesses – The Simple Facts
As if saving money and protecting the planet isn’t enough, there’s another compelling reason to review your business waste management right now.
Are you aware of the government’s new recycling regulations?
Simpler Recycling is a new government reform to the recycling system to make recycling more consistent, it will impact every business in the coming months.
Whether you’re:
- At home
- At work
- Away on business or pleasure
The new regulations seek to put an end to the confusion over what can and cannot be recycled, improve recycling rates, reduce contamination and achieve net zero targets.
What does this mean for businesses, schools, hospitals and other non-domestic premises?
Under the Simpler Recycling legislation, you must:
- Arrange collections: Partner with a licensed waste carrier to collect recyclable materials.
- Recycle specific materials: Ensure the recycling of food waste, glass, metal, plastic, paper, and cardboard etc.
By adhering to the new requirements, organisations can contribute to a more sustainable environment and demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility.
When does this legislation come into force?
- Businesses and relevant non-domestic premises must comply by 31 March 2025.
- Micro-firms (businesses with fewer than 10 full-time equivalent employees) will receive a 2-year exemption and must comply by 31 March 2027.
All specified premises must have arrangements in place to recycle the designated materials effectively by these dates.
In a nutshell
Businesses and non-household municipal (schools, prisons, care homes etc) sites with 10+ employees will be required to put out dry recyclables and food waste for separate collection from 1 April 2025. This will apply to micro businesses from 1 April 2027.
What are the ‘Core Recyclables’?
Cans Plastics Paper/Card Glass with separate collections for Food Waste.
Don’t place Core Recyclables or Food Waste in your General Waste collection.
What action will you need to take?
- Provide separate bins for the Core Recyclables (plastic, paper & card, glass, metal) and food waste.
- Ensure all bins are clearly labelled and easily accessible to staff.
- Conduct a waste audit to identify the type and quantity of waste you produce.
- Keep detailed records of the waste you generate, including the type and quantity of waste segregated, ready for mandatory digital waste tracking.
- Conduct regular training sessions on proper waste segregation.
- Use posters, signage, and digital communications to reinforce correct practices.
- Ensure waste items are empty, not heavily contaminated, and free from hazardous residues.
- Regularly monitor and manage the cleanliness of separated waste.
- Coordinate with licensed waste carriers to understand collection schedules and requirements.
- Ensure proper storage and preparation of separated waste for collection.
- Provide records of the waste you generate for the mandatory digital waste tracking service.
With a little over 6 months to get compliant, now is a great time to get up to speed on what’s required and start acting.
Get in touch with Yorwaste if you need help or guidance on the new regulations.
