The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has announced an important reform to the UK’s recycling system, introducing the Simpler Recycling initiative. Set to take effect on 31st March 2025, these changes aim to streamline and simplify recycling processes for both households and businesses across the UK. But what exactly do these changes entail, and how can your business prepare to stay compliant?
What are the upcoming changes?
Under the new Simpler Recycling policy, businesses and non-household premises with ten or more full-time employees will need to establish collection systems for specific materials. Starting from 31st March 2025, businesses in this category must set up regular collections for:
- Paper and cardboard
- Steel and aluminium (such as cans, foil, and aerosols)
- Plastics (including bottles, pots, tubs, trays, and cartons)
- Cartons and Tetra Paks
- Glass
- Food waste
This means organisations will need to implement clear recycling practices for all recyclable waste streams to meet the new standards.
Who will be impacted?
The immediate impact will fall on businesses and premises that employ ten or more full-time equivalent employees. Smaller businesses—those with fewer than ten full-time employees—will have a later deadline, with full compliance expected by 31st March 2027. However, DEFRA is urging all organisations to start planning and implementing these changes sooner rather than later.
How do you stay compliant?
To meet the new requirements by the 2025 deadline, businesses are advised to begin preparations now. Here are some key steps to help you stay on track:
- Assess your waste output: Conduct a waste audit to understand the types and quantities of waste your organisation produces. This will help you determine the scale and frequency of collections you’ll need.
- Review existing waste management processes: Evaluate your current waste handling practices to identify areas that may need adjustments to meet the upcoming requirements.
- Contact waste collection providers: Reach out to waste management companies or food waste collection services to organise the best system for storage, segregation, and collection.
- Familiarise yourself with new regulations: Ensure that you and your team fully understand the details of the new recycling regulations and how they apply to your organisation.
What’s next?
Beyond March 2025, the government has plans for additional phases in the recycling reform. By 31st March 2027, businesses with ten or more employees will be required to collect recyclable plastic films as part of their recycling efforts. Smaller businesses, meanwhile, will also be required to separate dry recyclables and food waste by this 2027 deadline.
While smaller businesses may have extra time, DEFRA recommends that all organisations, regardless of size, start implementing these practices well in advance of the 2027 deadline. Early preparation can help businesses smoothly transition and meet compliance requirements with minimal disruption.
Embracing the change
The Simpler Recycling policy marks a major shift toward reducing unnecessary waste and promoting a sustainable future for the UK. By taking steps now to prepare, businesses can not only ensure compliance but also contribute positively to the environment.
For more information and additional support contact Acumen today.
