As part of England’s ongoing commitment to improving sustainability, new Simpler Recycling Legislation has been announced for 2025. This legislation aims to standardise and streamline waste management practices for businesses across the country, making recycling more accessible and efficient. Here’s what you need to know about these upcoming changes and how they can benefit your business.
What Is Simpler Recycling?
Simpler Recycling refers to a set of reforms introduced by the UK government to standardise waste and recycling collection across the country. The aim of the initiative is to make recycling easier and more consistent for households and businesses, leading to increased recycling rates, reduced contamination of recyclable materials, and a reduction in landfill waste.
What are the new recycling requirements?
Under the new Simpler Recycling legislation, businesses with 10 employees and more must separate dry recyclables into dedicated containers and ensure food waste is collected separately, regardless of the amount produced, starting from March 2025. Businesses with fewer than 10 employees have time until March 2027 to adapt.
Simpler Recycling guidance
Whilst the government has not finalised the guidance on simpler recycling, the current timeline is as follows:
- By 31 March 2025 - Mandatory collections for dry recyclable materials (glass, paper, card, metals, plastics) and separate food waste.
- By 31 March 2027 - Inclusion of plastic film packaging and plastic bags in the plastic waste stream. Micro-businesses with fewer than 10 employees must recycle all specified waste streams.
Landfill tax in the UK is a government-imposed levy on waste disposed of in landfills, aimed at encouraging businesses and individuals to reduce waste and promote recycling. Following the 2024 Spring Budget announcement, landfill tax rates in England will see a significant rise from April 2025. The standard rate will increase by over 20%, and the lower rate for inert waste will rise by 22.7%. These higher rates will encourage businesses and local authorities to make more sustainable choices In line with the waste hierarchy.
How to Prepare for Simpler Recycling
The upcoming Simpler Recycling Legislation will play a key role in helping England move towards a more sustainable, circular economy. By preparing your business now, you can ensure compliance while also reaping the benefits of improved waste management, cost savings, and a stronger commitment to sustainability.
As we move closer to the implementation of these changes, staying informed and proactive will help your business transition smoothly. For ongoing updates and guidance on recycling, keep an eye on official government resources and waste management partners like Zest Recycle, who are at the forefront of supporting businesses through these changes.