The proposal would see a charge introduced to cover the cost of regulatory action should any workplace or waste collector be found to not be in keeping with the new legislation.
The Environment Agency has proposed a charge of £118 per hour which would cover the cost of identifying, investigating and assessing non-compliance.
A spokesperson for the agency said: “Simpler Recycling for workplaces is vital in moving us towards a more circular economy, delivering positive changes to the waste industry, and making our society reuse more of its precious resources.
“We will take a pragmatic approach to implementing simpler recycling, working with sectors to ensure they are fully supported in understanding the requirements and how to meet their new duties. Our proposals will see only repeat offenders who fail to work with us footing the bill.”
In line with the polluter pays principle, the charge would only apply to those found not to be complying.
The consultation opened yesterday (15 May 2025) and will close on 15 July 2025.
The Simpler Recycling legislation came into force in March 2025 and requires businesses with over ten full-time employees have to separate dry recycling, food waste and residual waste.
They have the option to separate paper and cardboard from other dry recycling such as glass, metals and plastics.
Workplaces with fewer than 10 employees have until 31 March 2027 to arrange for the recycling of the core recyclable waste streams.
From March 2026, the legislation will extend to local authorities in England and will also require them to provide the separate collection of dry recycling, food waste and residual waste.
Kerbside plastic film collections from workplaces and households will be introduced by 31 March 2027.
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