From 31 March 2025, new Simpler Recycling regulations will come into effect, requiring businesses to separate specific groups of recyclable materials. This initiative aims to enhance recycling efforts and promote environmental sustainability.
So, what does this mean for you as a business owner?
Businesses will need to separate the following recyclable materials:
- Glass, metal, and plastic
- Cardboard and paper
- Food waste (to be collected separately) – there is no minimum weight requirement for food waste before the regulations apply.
These guidelines apply to all businesses, healthcare establishments, and academic institutions and includes care homes, places of worship, charity shops, residential hostels and premises used for public meetings.
However, small businesses with fewer than 10 full-time employees are temporarily exempt until 31 March 2027.
What should you do?
Please note that Waverley Borough Council does not offer a commercial waste collection service so businesses are advised to speak with their current waste collectors to ensure their services meet the new requirements or to make necessary adjustments. If you are part of a Business Improvement District (BID), bulk purchasing of items such as bin liners or food waste bags is recommended.
Councillor Steve Williams, Waverley Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, said: “We welcome these new regulations which represent a significant step towards a more sustainable future. By simplifying and standardising recycling practices, we can improve recycling rates and reduce environmental impact. I would urge all Waverley businesses to look at the new regulations and make sure they are up-to-speed with what they need to do before 31 March.”
If you would like to find out further information, you can visit our Waverley business website page New Simpler Recycling Regulations for businesses coming soon or for more guidance and support, you can visit the following websites:
Surrey Environment Partnership - Business recycling (surreyep.org.uk)
Business of Recycling | WRAP
Simpler recycling: workplace recycling in England - GOV.UK