Changes to commercial waste recycling - Simpler Recycling 2025

New regulations aimed at simplifying recycling for businesses and improving waste management are set to come into force.

What this means for businesses

From Tuesday 1 April 2025, if your business employs 10 people or more, you must have separate bins and collections for: 

• Recyclables - Paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastic
• Food waste - If applicable.

If your business employs fewer than 10 people (microbusinesses) you must comply by 31 March 2027.

What businesses need to do

To meet these new requirements, businesses must:

• Separate and dispose of all recyclables using appropriate collection services
• Arrange food waste collection
• Inform and train staff on correct recycling practices.

Failure to comply may lead to enforcement action.

How to prepare

You can get ready in advance by:

• Reviewing existing waste management contracts
• Talking to your waste collection provider
• Setting up the right bins for food waste and recyclables.

More information

For further guidance and support, please visit:

• Simpler recycling: Workplace Recycling in England
• Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP): Business of Recycling
• Disposal of business or commercial waste

Contact us

If you have any questions about the changes, please get in touch:

• Email:  commercial.waste@dacorum.gov.uk