Grundon

Simpler Recycling

Is your business ready for England’s new recycling legislation?

What is Simpler Recycling?

‘Simpler Recycling’ is the name given to the new set of regulations, introduced by the UK Government on 21 October 2023.

The regulation aims to dispel any confusion regarding recyclable and non-recyclable materials whilst providing consistency in recycling practices for homes, workplaces and schools across England.

It will first affect businesses from 31 March 2025 onwards.

In practical terms, what does this new legislation mean?

It means that, from 31 March 2025, all businesses and other non-household premises with 10 or more full-time employees must have a separate collection for dry recyclable materials (plastic, paper and card, glass, metals) and must separate food waste from general waste, regardless of the amount produced.

Micro-firms (businesses with fewer than 10 full-time employees) must have these collections in place by 31 March 2027.

Also from 31 March 2027, recyclable plastic film packaging and plastic bags will need to be separated by everyone

What about if my business has multiple sites?

The regulations apply to all businesses and non-household premises with 10 or more full-time employees, regardless of how many employees are on site at one time.

The full-time equivalent employment is calculated on a business basis, not on a site-by-site basis, which means that if you have more than 10 full-time employees spread across multiple sites, you must still comply.

Simpler Recycling Timeline

For non-household premises
(businesses, hospitals, schools)

21 October 2023

The UK Government announces the new Simpler Recycling legislation

31 March 2025

Compulsory collection for dry recyclable materials (glass, paper, card, metals, plastics) and separate food waste

31 March 2027

All establishments must include plastic film packaging and plastic bags in the plastic waste stream

31 March 2027

Micro-businesses, with fewer than 10 full-time employees must comply with the new rules

How to prepare your business

Get ready for the new legislation by making sure you have the right containers and collections in place. This is particularly important for food waste, as it must be in a separate container from general waste.

You’re likely to need containers for:

Mixed recycling

  • Metals
    (tins and cans, aluminium)
  • Plastic
    (bottles, pots, tubs and trays)
  • Paper & Card

Food waste

  • Dairy products
  • Tea bags and coffee grounds
  • Raw and cooked meat and bones
  • Fruit and vegetables
  • Leftovers

Glass waste

  • Clean glass bottles and jars

General waste

  • Dry non-recyclable waste
  • Non-hazardous waste

How Grundon can help

Our team is here to support your business as you adapt to these new recycling requirements.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you reduce both the environmental and financial impact of your waste, while ensuring full compliance with the upcoming regulation.

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