The UK government has introduced new Simpler Recycling legislation to make recycling rules consistent across the country. If you’re a business owner, office manager, or site operator, these changes may just sound like extra hassle, but they’re important new changes. So, in this guide, we’re going to understand what Simpler Recycling is and how you can make the switch without disrupting your business’s daily operations.
Jump to:
- What is Simpler Recycling?
- What’s changing with Simpler Recycling legislation?
- 5 steps to stay Simpler Recycling compliant
- Simpler Recycling FAQs
What is Simpler Recycling?
Simpler Recycling is a nationwide recycling system being rolled out by the UK government. It’s designed to make recycling collections and waste separation consistent across all local authorities in England.
All businesses and homes will be required to separate key waste streams by March 2027 to improve the country’s overall recycling rate (which has peaked at 45% since 2015).
What waste needs to be separated?
- Dry recyclable materials (paper, cardboard, metal, and plastic)
- Food waste
- Glass waste
- Plastic films and plastic film packaging (to be added from 2027)
- Residual waste (non-recyclable waste that cannot be sorted)
Not sure if your business is ready for the new Simpler Recycling legislation? Book a free waste audit with J Dickinson & Sons and we’ll show you exactly what bins, collections, and processes you need to stay compliant.
What’s changing with Simpler Recycling legislation?
Simple Recycling is bringing in a nationwide, standardised system for how businesses must deal with their waste. The biggest change is that it introduces a legal requirement for businesses to separate out recyclable materials (like food waste, paper, cardboard, glass, and plastic), so they can be collected and processed properly.
Here are the main Simpler Recycling legislation changes that businesses need to know about:
- The rules will apply to all businesses – eventually: Since 31 March 2025, all businesses in England with 10 or more full-time employees have had to comply with Simpler Recycling legislation. Smaller businesses with fewer than 10 full-time employees will have to follow suit by 2027.
- It will be consistent across regions: Every area in England will follow the same structure for waste separation and disposal, to avoid confusion and remain consistent.
Did you know? Simpler Recycling is expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions on a scale valued at £11.8 billion to the UK economy.
5 steps to stay Simpler Recycling compliant
You don’t need to overhaul your business to meet the new Simpler Recycling rules. Just follow these five steps to make the switch smoothly:
- Conduct a waste audit of your business: Start by reviewing your current waste management practices with a waste audit. Get an idea of how much general and recyclable waste you generate each week, so you know how many bins to bring in.
- Update your waste bins and labels: Make sure you have the right number and type of commercial bins. Use clear labels for each waste stream to make it simple for staff to separate their waste. Remember to include bins for:
- Dry recycling (paper, plastic, glass, metals)
- General (non-recyclable) waste
- Food waste
- Train your team: Staff need to understand what waste goes where. Run short training sessions for all employees and add posters near waste containers to reduce mistakes.
- Choose a reliable waste management partner: Work with a company that can reliably remove your commercial waste at cost-effective prices. This will make sure you keep up with collections and with Simpler Recycling rules.
- Monitor and adjust when needed: Once everything is set up, don’t just set it and forget it. Keep an eye out for any recurring issues like contamination or overfilled waste bins, so you can address the issues before they become bigger problems.
Warning: Not complying with Simpler Recycling regulations can land you with fines, missed collections, and higher waste disposal costs. Don’t risk it – prepare your business today.
Simpler Recycling with J Dickinson & Sons today
We’re a proud family-run business with over 85 years of experience offering reliable waste management services across Greater Manchester. With our purpose-built, 17-acre recycling facility in Horwich, we help businesses throughout the North West meet their sustainability goals and cut waste disposal costs.
If you need help managing your business waste in light of Simpler Recycling rules, then get in touch – we’re here to help. Call us on 01204 696446 or get your free online quote now.
Simpler Recycling FAQs
What happens if you don’t comply with Simpler Recycling?
If your business doesn’t comply with Simpler Recycling legislation, you could face fines from your local authority. Non-compliance may also lead to missed waste collections, higher waste disposal costs, and disruption to daily operations.
Why is Simpler Recycling happening?
The UK Government introduced Simpler Recycling to make waste management consistent across England and to improve national recycling rates, which have stalled at around 45% since 2015. The legislation aims to reduce residual waste, cut carbon emissions, and make sure valuable recyclable materials such as food waste, glass, plastics, and paper are properly collected and recycled.
How can recycling affect a business?
Recycling affects a business in several ways. Complying with Simpler Recycling can lower waste disposal costs, improve recycling rates, and reduce your company’s environmental impact. It also helps businesses meet sustainability goals, improve their reputation with clients and staff, and avoid fines for non-compliance.
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