On the Simpler Recycling changes in April 2025
The UK's waste management landscape is about to change with the introduction of the new UK government initiative: Simpler Recycling. From 1st April 2025, businesses across the country will face new requirements for waste segregation. Introduced in 2023 by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), Simpler Recycling was brought in to help make bin day easier, by ending the confusion of what can and can’t be recycled. Are you ready?
What is changing?
While the specifics are still being finalised in some areas, the core principle is greater segregation of recyclable materials at the source. This means businesses will likely need to implement more detailed waste separation systems, potentially including separate bins or containers for:
Paper and Cardboard, Plastic, Glass, Metal, Food Waste, Other Recyclables, Non-Recyclable Waste, Hazardous Waste.
Micro-firms need to comply by 31 March 2027 - Micro-firms are workplaces with less than 10 full-time employees in total.
All other businesses need to comply by 31st March 2025
What should businesses be doing?
The April 2025 deadline may seem distant, but it's crucial to start preparing now. Don't wait until the last minute!
Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest government guidance and local authority requirements.
Conduct a waste audit: Understand your current waste streams and identify areas for improvement.
Plan your new system: Develop a comprehensive waste management plan that meets the new requirements.
Invest in training and resources: Ensure your staff are properly trained and have the necessary equipment.
Review your waste contracts: Speak with your waste provider to ensure they can handle the segregated waste.
By taking proactive steps, your business can ensure a smooth transition to the new waste segregation requirements and reap the associated benefits. This is not just about compliance; it's about contributing to a more sustainable future.
Changes to Your Waste Management System
These changes may have a significant impact on how businesses are currently managing their waste. You'll need to:
Update your management system: Record the new legal requirements and your company's commitment to responsible waste management. Don’t forget to include your Environmental Policy for review and make any changes if necessary.
Review your Waste Management documented procedures: This is the most directly affected document. It will need a complete overhaul to detail the new waste segregation requirements, including:
Waste streams to be segregated (food, paper, dry recyclables, etc.)
Bin types and placement
Staff training procedures
Waste collection arrangements
Spill response procedures (if applicable)
Record-keeping requirements
Work Instructions: These may need to be developed or revised to provide step-by-step guidance on how to segregate waste at the point of generation. This is especially important for areas where waste segregation may be complex or require specific handling.
Training Materials: All relevant training materials (presentations, handouts, etc.) must be updated to reflect the new waste management procedures. Training records should also be updated to show that staff have been trained on the new system.
Aspects and Impacts Register: This register should be updated to reflect the environmental aspects associated with the new waste segregation processes.
Emergency Preparedness and Response Procedures: Procedures for dealing with spills or contamination of waste materials may need to be updated.
Legal Register: Ensure your legal register is updated to reflect the new waste regulations.
Communication: Document how the new waste management procedures will be communicated to all relevant personnel.
Review your waste contracts: If waste collection services are outsourced, contracts with waste management providers may need to be reviewed and updated to ensure they can handle the segregated waste streams.
