The Government has introduced ‘Simpler Recycling’, a new set of regulations designed to make recycling easier and ensure consistent recycling practices across homes, workplaces, and schools in England.
Simpler Recycling will transform recycling in England by standardising waste collection and introducing separate streams for recyclable materials, reducing general waste and increasing recycling overall.
When will it come into effect?
The new measures came into effect on 31st March 2025.
- Micro-firms (with fewer than 10 full-time employees) must comply with the new legislation, and all businesses must recycle plastic film packaging.
- The standard applies to the business as a whole, not individual sites.
Which waste streams must be separated?
- At a minimum, your business will need to have in place a dry mixed recycling service (for glass, metal, plastics, paper and card), a food recycling service and a general waste service.
