Transforming recycling practices in England: DEFRA's latest initiatives
At last, the UK Government has released its 'Simpler Recycling' reforms, with the aim of reshaping the way we recycle to improve recycling rates, but what does this mean for your business?
As the name suggests, the new rules aim to make things simpler, easier and more consistent across the UK, driving up recycling rates which have been stagnating under 45% in recent years.
Our experts have condensed the reforms into three key points you need to ensure your business is compliant.
1. Separate recycling from rubbish
‘Simpler Recycling’ rules will affect both businesses and households, but did you know that 60% of waste in Westminster comes from businesses? That’s why businesses, schools and hospitals play a crucial role in recycling efforts in Westminster.
Your business will be responsible for separating
a) food waste
b) all dry recycling (paper, card, plastic packaging, glass and metal)
from the rest of your general waste. This means you will need a minimum of three containers.
At Commercial Waste Services, we already recycle each of these materials. Simply click on a material and get in touch. We recommend separate collections for each material type, as this means it can be recycled into a higher value end-product.
Don’t have enough space to separate each material? No worries - we also provide a mixed recycling service that collects all your dry recycling in one go.
The main focus of this new initiative is that all local authorities will have to recycle the same materials by 31 March 2025.
2. Focus on food waste
All producers of food waste, no matter how small, will be required to separate this for collection. Depending on the volumes you produce, your business recycling rates and sustainability performance could jump up simply by separating your food waste. This could also boost up sales for your business as 81% of people prefer to buy from sustainable businesses. As costs for goods and services rise across the country, stay ahead of the curve, make savings for your business and start separating your food waste today.
Commercial Waste Services is able to collect your food waste as often as you need with our normal service or our new on demand service where we can collect any waste stream within an hour of booking.
Not sure if your business needs a food waste service? Book a free audit to have one of our experts let you know exactly what your business needs. We can also provide expert training for your staff to support you every step of the way.
3. Key deadlines
- By March 31 2025, all businesses with more than 10 full-time equivalent employees must recycle the following materials:
- By 31 March 2027, businesses with less than 10 full-time equivalent employees will be required to recycle the core materials outlined above.
- By 31 March 2027, all businesses will be required to include clean, dry plastic film in their plastic recycling collection.
How can Commercial Waste Services help?
We are committed to being your go-to recycling and sustainability experts, so you can focus on running your business and we take care of the rest.
Our services are already aligned with the Government’s new rules and regulations. Click here to see all the services we provide.
The first step in making sure your business is compliant is to book a waste audit with one of our experts. You can do this by clicking here.
