Micro businesses with fewer than 10 employees should take note: from 31 March 2027, the Simpler Recycling recycling legislation will come into effect for you. In this blog, we help you understand the changes and create realistic changes to stay up to date with the new government rules.
Understanding the changes
The government has introduced simpler recycling legislation requiring all businesses, including micro enterprises to put into place waste segregation practices. This includes:
- Being responsible for separating food waste and all dry recycling (paper, card, plastic packaging, glass and metal) from the rest of your general waste.
- Each business will need a minimum of three containers.
This regulatory change comes from government policy looking at improving national recycling rates. Our role at Westminster Commercial Waste Services (CWS) is to support businesses in becoming compliant.
Implementation timeline
Larger organisations have already begun adapting to these requirements since March 2025. The government's two launch approach provides micro businesses with additional time to get their waste management systems installed and ensure staff are knowledgeable before the March 2027 deadline.
Recommended actions
To ensure your business is ready, CWS recommends you:
- Conduct a waste audit – Establish a baseline understanding of what is in your waste.
- Review service agreements – Confirm your waste management provider can accommodate new collection requirements.
- Staff training – Ensure all personnel understand how to correctly recycle.
Support available
Westminster City Council's Commercial Waste Services team is equipped to guide your organisation through this transition. Our waste audit services can find disposal patterns specific to your business, enabling the development of compliant, cost-effective collection solutions.
Proactive planning now will help ensure your business is ready for 2027.
For further information, please contact our team contact us today on 020 7641 6180 or commercialwaste@westminster.gov.uk.
