Environmental compliance UK-wide

Simpler Recycling for businesses in England

New requirements for businesses in England to separate recyclable waste from March 2025. Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have separate recycling regulations.

Guide summary

Separate your business waste into recyclable materials from March 2025 or 2027, depending on the number of employees. You must arrange separate food waste collection for all food waste, no matter how little you produce. Make sure your waste collector recycles the materials, not sends them to landfill or incineration.

  • Large businesses (250+ employees) must start from 31 March 2025
  • Smaller businesses (fewer than 250) must start from 31 March 2027
  • Separate glass, metal, plastic, paper and card for recycling
  • Separate all food waste – no minimum amount applies
  • You can use separate bins or a mixed recycling bin if your collector agrees
  • Local authorities will enforce the rules, starting with education
  • Review your waste contracts and check your collector offers compliant services
  • Set up clearly labelled bins and train your staff
  • If you take waste to a site yourself, you are still responsible for separation
On this page

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From 31 March 2025, businesses in England must separate recyclable waste for collection. This "Simpler Recycling" requirement aims to increase business recycling rates and make recycling more consistent.

Food waste requirements

Working with waste collectors

  1. 1

    Determine when requirements apply to you

    250+ employees from March 2025, smaller businesses from March 2027.

  2. 2

    Audit your waste streams

    Understand what waste your business produces and current disposal methods.

  3. 3

    Review waste contracts

    Check if your current collector offers compliant recycling services. Get quotes if needed.

  4. 4

    Set up collection points

    Provide clearly labelled bins for each material. Place conveniently for staff.

  5. 5

    Train staff

    Explain new requirements and why they matter. Clear labelling helps compliance.

  6. 6

    Arrange food waste collection

    All businesses in England must arrange separate food waste collection - no minimum threshold applies.