Simpler Recycling comes into force for workplaces

From today (31 March 2025), businesses with 10 or more employees will have to arrange for the separate collection of the following: 

• Dry recyclable materials – including plastic, metal and glass 

• Paper and card*  

• Food waste   

• Residual (non-recyclable) waste 

*Paper and card will need to be collected separately unless it is collected with other dry recyclable materials by the contracted waste collector.  

Businesses can decide for themselves on the size of containers and frequency of collections.  

Circular economy minister Mary Creagh said: “We are committed to ending the throwaway society, boosting recycling rates which have stalled for too long, and driving growth through the government’s Plan for Change.  

“Simplifying the rules for workplaces will make recycling easier, maximising environmental benefits, delivering cost savings and stimulating growth.   

“We’ll continue to work hand-in-hand with businesses to deliver our reforms to drive up recycling rates and ensure there’s more recycled content in the products we buy.” 

As of today, the Environment Agency (EA) has assumed responsibilities as the regulator for legislation.  

Steve Molyneux, deputy director of waste and resources regulation at the EA, said: “The implementation of Simpler Recycling for workplaces is a pivotal moment and a huge step forward, driving change in the waste market, optimising the use of our precious resources, and contributing to a circular economy.  

“We are committed to supporting businesses with their new duties. We will take a pragmatic approach to implementation and will work with stakeholders to support them in overcoming any difficulties they might face in relation to compliance.” 

Other Simpler Recycling measures  

On 31 March 2026, the same rules will apply to all households across the UK.  

Local authorities will have to introduce separate food waste collections for most homes if they do not already provide them.  

Some councils may be able to apply for a “transitional arrangement” and therefore receive a later start date.  

Kerbside plastic film collections from workplaces and households will be introduced by 31 March 2027.  

Workplaces with fewer than 10 employees have until 31 March 2027 to arrange for the recycling of the core recyclable waste streams.  

Simpler Recycling timeline 

Simpler Recycling was first proposed in 2018 as part of the Resources and Waste Strategy.  

A consultation for the changes was held in 2021 and the policy was due to be outlined in early 2023 but was delayed.  

The legislation was originally referred to as the “consistency legislation” before being renamed “Simpler Recycling” in October 2023 when it was launched.  

In November 2024, the government announced that paper and cardboard would be collected separately. 

Industry reactions

Robbie Staniforth, innovation and policy director at Ecosurety, said: “These new rules mark significant progress on waste and recycling in England.

“The measure that I’m most excited about is food waste. Widespread collections could be game-changing.

“Not just in terms of the direct recycling yields from businesses, but in changing the behaviour of the average person. If separating food waste from other waste at work becomes a social norm, it could impact on habits within the home.

“Food waste seems to have plateaued over the last few years. I hope this change acts as a springboard for those recycling rates to increase.”

David Gudgeon, head of external affairs at Reconomy Connect, made a case for learning from Wales’ experience: “A major factor in Wales’ success is the supportive approach taken by Natural Resources Wales, the body responsible for compliance. Rather than relying solely on enforcement, they’ve focused on guidance, advice and helping businesses adjust to the new rules.

“Clear communication has also been key – particularly for food-to-go outlets, where language barriers have been a challenge in understanding obligations.”

Dean Willshee, managing director at Willshee’s Waste & Recycling, added: “One of the major challenges businesses will face is contamination.

“If food waste is incorrectly disposed of with recyclables, entire loads could be rejected, leading to increased costs and compliance issues.

“Businesses must ensure their waste is correctly sorted, with clear internal signage, properly designated waste bins and staff training to support the change. Choosing a knowledgeable waste management provider is crucial, as they can offer expert advice and conduct waste audits to help businesses implement effective segregation practices.

“Preparing for Simpler Recycling should begin with a waste audit. Businesses need to understand their waste streams and identify areas that require changes to remain compliant.

“Even businesses without large catering operations may still produce enough food waste to require separate collection, such as tea bags, fruit peels and coffee grounds.

“Simple measures, like introducing internal caddies and biodegradable bags, can make compliance easier and reduce the risk of contamination.”

Want to learn more about England’s Simpler Recycling? Join us at letsrecycle.com‘s National Conference in London on 3 July 2025. Register your interest and find out more here.