As we approach March 31, 2025, the landscape of commercial waste disposal in England is set to change dramatically. The new "Simpler Recycling" legislation from the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) mandates that businesses take action to improve waste management practices. Is your business ready to comply?
What Are the New Recycling Laws?
Under the Environment Act 2021, businesses with more than 10 full-time employees must separate recyclable materials from general waste. This includes:
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Dry recyclables (glass, metal, plastic, paper, and cardboard)
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Food waste
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Plastic film will also need to be included in the recycling process starting March 2027.
From March 2025, it will be crucial for businesses to store and present these materials separately for collection by waste contractors.
Key Deadlines to Keep in Mind
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March 31, 2025: All businesses must separate dry mixed recyclables and food waste.
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March 31, 2026: Households will be required to recycle all waste types, excluding plastic film.
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March 31, 2027: The legislation will apply to all businesses, including the recycling of plastic film.
Preparing Your Business for Compliance
At Hugh Jordan, we understand that navigating new legislation can be complex. Here’s how to ensure your business is compliant and ready for the changes ahead:
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Assess Your Waste Generation: Identify the types and locations of waste produced in your facility. This includes areas like kitchens, staff rooms, and back offices where significant waste may be generated.
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Implement Food Waste Solutions: If your business generates food waste, it’s essential to establish systems for capturing and separating this waste. Remember, equipment like macerators cannot be used under the new regulations.
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Choose the Right Bins: Make sure you have the appropriate bins for each waste stream. Consider our Recycling Bins, which offers a modular solution to adapt as your recycling needs evolve.
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Enhance Bin Visibility: Reduce cross-contamination by using clearly labelled and colour-coded bins. This helps employees and customers quickly identify where to dispose of different types of waste.
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Foster a Recycling Culture: Engage your staff with training and educational materials to create a workplace committed to sustainability.
The Benefits of Compliant Recycling
Embracing these new recycling practices not only ensures compliance but also provides various benefits:
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Cost Reduction: Less waste sent to landfills means lower landfill costs, particularly as taxes are expected to rise.
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Enhanced Sustainability: Implementing effective recycling systems supports your sustainability goals and demonstrates your commitment to environmental stewardship.
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Improved Efficiency: A clear multi-stream recycling system minimises contamination, leading to a more efficient waste management process.
Partnering for Success
As you prepare for these changes, consider partnering with a trusted waste management provider like Hugh Jordan. Our extensive range of products and expertise can help streamline your recycling efforts, ensuring you meet all legislative requirements with ease.
Take Action Today!
With the deadline approaching, now is the time to review your waste management practices and make necessary adjustments. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure your business is not only compliant but also contributing positively to the environment.
For more information on our waste management solutions and to explore our range of recycling bins, contact Hugh Jordan today. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable future!
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