On 21 October 2023, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) started a targeted consultation which ended on 20 November 2023. The response document was released last month and can be read here.
Background
A new policy was released called Simpler Recycling in October 2023 to remove confusion within the UK’s recycling system. Currently, each local government recycles different materials to one another. Westminster City Council is the largest borough in London and as such, has one of the most comprehensive systems. By adding this reform, it aims to simplify what can and cannot be recycled for both businesses and residents and increase recycling rates across the country.
On 9 May 2024, the Government published the consultation response, which focuses on exemptions, guidance and key components of Simpler Recycling to be introduced on 31 March 2025. The government has also shed more light on two policy areas:
- A fuller list of relevant non-domestic premises that will need to follow the requirements of the new reform.
- Additional information on waste collectors needing to record in the digital waste tracking service.
Key points
Exemptions:
- Councils can co-collect dry recyclable material such as plastic, metal, glass, paper and card in one bin.
- Councils can co-collect food and garden waste in one bin.
All businesses, hospitals, schools and universities have to make arrangements to recycle all waste streams (mixed recycling, food waste, paper and card, plastics and glass) however, these sites do not need to recycle garden waste.
Timeframes
- All businesses must start a mixed recycling collection by 31 March 2025.
- All businesses must start recycling food waste by 31 March 2025.
- All businesses must start recycling plastic film by 31 March 2027.
What this means for your business and how we can help
In nine months, it will be a legal requirement for your business to recycle all waste streams outlined in the Simpler Recycling reform. At Commercial Waste Services, we already provide collection services for all those waste streams and more. By contacting one of our friendly customer service advisors today, you can start recycling with us and get ahead of the upcoming legislation. Not only will recycling help you comply with the new law, but it can also save your business money. If you are currently only a general waste customer, get in touch today to see how you can save 10% on your first three months when you use one of our recycling services.
Recycling is not just a legal obligation, but it's also an opportunity to reduce your environmental impact and potentially lower your waste management costs. Don't wait until the last minute – contact us now to get started on your recycling journey and stay ahead of the curve.
