Simpler Recycling Legislation: What It Means For Your Business

Prepare early, stay compliant while actively contributing to a greener, more sustainable future with Lili Waste Services.

Simpler Recycling UK: What the New Rules Mean for Your Business and Home

In 2023, the UK government launched the Simpler Recycling initiative to make recycling easier for everyone—businesses and households alike. The goal is to clear up confusion about what can be recycled, helping us all contribute to a greener future.

Important Deadlines for Businesses

• By March 31, 2025: If your business has 10 or more full time employees regardless of how many employees are on site at one time, you’ll need to start separating key recyclables like plastic, glass, paper, metal, and food waste. For instance, if your business operates five locations and employs only two full-time staff members at each site, you will still need to comply with the Simpler Recycling regulations. This step will help reduce waste and support a more sustainable economy.
• By March 31, 2026: Local councils will begin enforcing similar recycling rules for households.
• By March 31, 2027: Micro-businesses with fewer than 10 employees will also need to comply with the new rules. (Please note this remains subject to legislative confirmation).

Who Needs to Pay Attention?

These new recycling rules apply to all businesses and non-household locations in England, including:

• Small and Medium Businesses (SMEs)
• Charities
• Schools
• Hospitals
• Places of worship

What Does This Mean for You?

If you run a business, here’s what you need to do by March 31, 2025:

• Separate your waste: You’ll need to sort recyclable materials like plastic, glass, metals, paper/cardboard, and food waste into separate containers.
• Stay informed: Defra, the government department behind this initiative, may change how recyclables are collected, so be sure to keep an eye out for updates. You might need to separate them into different bins or combine them into Dry Mixed Recycling (DMR)—but food waste always needs to be kept separate.

Future Changes to Keep in Mind

• By March 31, 2027, you’ll also need to recycle plastic films (e.g., packaging). However, compostable and biodegradable plastics should still be thrown out with general waste.

To Be Confirmed by Government: Separation of Waste (England) (No. 2) Regulations 2024

The UK Government is still reviewing several critical aspects of the Separation of Waste (England) (No. 2) Regulations 2024, including:

• The collection and mixing of recyclable materials
• Deadlines for micro-businesses to comply
• Minimum collection schedules for household general waste

We are working closely with Defra to advocate for a swift resolution of these issues. We’ll continue to update this page to ensure you have the most current information on what you need to do to stay compliant.

Additionally, binary labelling will be introduced in April 2027 under the packaging Extended Producer Responsibility scheme. This will help consumers easily identify how to dispose of packaging materials correctly, with clear “do recycle” or “do not recycle” labels.

Let Lili Waste Services Help You Stay on Track

We know that new recycling rules can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate these changes alone. Lili Waste Services is here to help your business meet these new requirements with ease. Our team can guide you through every step of the process, making sure you’re fully compliant while keeping things simple and stress-free.

We offer tailored waste management solutions to fit your business, no matter its size. You’ll be helping the environment and staying ahead of the game!

Your Waste Recycling Guide

Why Wait? Let’s Get Started!

Don’t wait until the deadlines are right around the corner. Get prepared now and avoid any last-minute stress or potential fines. For advice, support and a free, no obligation quote contact us today. Let us handle your waste, so you can focus on what you do best.