On March 31st, 2025, the “Simpler Recycling” regulations came into effect in England, impacting businesses and non-household premises. They aim to standardise recycling practices across England, reduce waste, and promote the circular economy.
The changes require businesses to separate their waste into three categories:
food waste, dry recyclables (plastic, paper, card, glass, metals), and general waste. They need to use licensed waste carriers for collections.
Businesses with 10 or more full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) are required to comply with the regulations immediately. Smaller businesses (under 10 employees) have until March 31st, 2027, to comply. Non-household premises such as schools and hospitals are also subject to these regulations as long as they have 10 or more full-time equivalent staff.
Check you are using a licensed waste carrier in England at the Environment Agency:
You can search by business name, waste carrier registration number, postcode or location
Search for a waste carrier or broker
More information available on the UK Government website