New Food Waste Regulations For Businesses: How to Prepare

Kate McCann
December 11, 2024

Big waste management changes are coming for businesses in England. By the end of March 2025, all businesses that produce food waste will be required to comply with new ‘Simpler Recycling’ regulations mandating separate food waste collections. This initiative aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of food waste and promote more sustainable practices.

What’s Changing?

All non-household municipal premises in England, except for micro-firms (those with fewer than 10 full-time employees), are expected to meet the following requirements:

Separate Food Waste Collections: Businesses must ensure food waste is collected separately and kept out of general waste streams.
Proper Waste Presentation: Food waste must be handled and presented in compliance with the new regulations.

When Does It Take Effect?

Businesses must comply with the new Simpler Recycling regulations by the 31st of March 2025. This provides a short adjustment period to implement the necessary changes to your waste management processes – having mandatory collections for dry recyclable materials (glass, paper, card, metals, plastics) and separate food waste.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Missing the March 2025 deadline for compliance with the new food waste regulations could have some consequences. Businesses may face financial penalties from regulatory authorities if they don’t meet the requirements. Additionally, demonstrating environmental responsibility is becoming more important to customers and stakeholders, so taking proactive steps now can help protect and even enhance your business’s reputation.

What This Means for Your Business

These changes may require your business to adapt quickly, potentially altering your existing waste management systems. While there could be some initial challenges, this shift offers key benefits:

Boost Sustainability Credentials:
Demonstrating compliance with the new rules reflects positively on your brand’s commitment to the environment.
Optimise Costs:
Diverting food waste from general landfill can reduce disposal costs in the long term.
Support Environmental Goals:
Contributing to a more sustainable waste system aligns with wider environmental and corporate objectives.

How Reduce My Costs Can Help

Transitioning to the new regulations doesn’t have to be a hassle. At Reduce My Costs, we specialise in tailored waste management solutions that help businesses of all sizes achieve compliance while controlling costs. Here’s how we can support your business:

Waste Audits:
We’ll assess your current processes and recommend effective solutions.
Cost-Effective Food Waste Collection Services:
Through our network of trusted providers, we can arrange reliable and compliant food waste collections.
Ongoing Support:
From setting up your collection plan to resolving any issues with waste providers, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. Visit our waste management solutions page to learn how we can help your business navigate these changes. Let’s work together to turn regulatory compliance into a step toward a greener, more sustainable future!