Simpler Recycling Regulations: What Businesses Need to Know

Kate McCann
March 7, 2025

From March 31, 2025, the new Simpler Recycling regulations will take effect across England, requiring businesses and other non-domestic properties to separate recyclable materials and food waste. The government is introducing these rules to create a standardised approach to recycling, ensuring all non-domestic premises follow the same process. Businesses must review their waste disposal methods and introduce clear waste separation measures to remain compliant.

Understanding the Simpler Recycling Rules

A key element of the regulations is separating different types of waste, with a strong focus on keeping food waste separate. Businesses will need to ensure that recyclable materials – such as paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, and metal – are kept out of general waste. However, food waste has its own specific requirements and must not be mixed with other waste types. Food must be disposed of separately in a dedicated food waste collection, as failing to separate it correctly could lead to contamination issues, making it harder to recycle other materials. Any remaining non-recyclable waste should be kept apart as residual waste.

Simpler Recycling Compliance Deadlines

The regulations will be introduced in phases, with different deadlines depending on the size of your business:

• March 31, 2025: Businesses with 10 or more full-time equivalent (FTE) employees must comply.

• March 31, 2027: Smaller businesses with fewer than 10 FTE employees will need to comply by this date.

To avoid last-minute changes, businesses should start assessing their waste management systems now and working towards compliance as soon as possible. If you’re unsure how these rules apply to your business, our team can help – call us on 0800 989 0144 or visit the government’s Simpler Recycling page for more details.

Making Sure Your Business Stays Compliant

To meet these new requirements, businesses must ensure their waste collection arrangements allow for the separate collection of recyclables and food waste. This may involve reviewing existing contracts with waste providers or switching to a service that meets the new collection requirements. Sorting this early on will help avoid any disruptions and ensure a smooth transition.

These changes don’t just help businesses meet legal obligations – they also come with significant environmental and operational benefits:

Improved Recycling Efficiency:
Keeping waste streams separate makes it easier for materials to be processed and reused.
Lower Carbon Emissions:
Diverting waste from landfill reduces environmental impact.
Better Sustainability Credentials:
Demonstrating green initiatives can improve brand reputation.
Avoiding Non-Compliance Penalties:
Failing to separate waste correctly could lead to fines.

Act Now to Get Ahead

With the March 2025 deadline fast approaching, now is the time to review your waste processes, engage with waste providers, and educate employees on the changes. Simple measures like clear signage, staff training, and regular checks can help ensure your business stays on track. The earlier you implement these changes, the easier the transition will be.

How Reduce My Costs Can Help

At Reduce My Costs, we work with businesses across multiple sectors to provide cost-effective waste management solutions that keep you compliant. Whether you need help reviewing your waste contracts, setting up food waste collections, or finding the best recycling provider, we can support you through the process. Our team can assess your current setup, recommend tailored solutions, and ensure you meet the new Simpler Recycling regulations without unnecessary hassle.

If you need guidance on what applies to your business or want to explore more efficient waste management options, get in touch today. Call us on 0800 989 0144 to find out how we can help your business stay compliant and reduce costs at the same time.