New recycling legislation set to simplify recycling in England

Recycling rates across the UK have stagnated at around 45 per cent in the last few years. One of the challenges in meeting the 65 per cent target for households has been the lack of consistency in messaging and waste-collection systems across different local authorities and between household and commercial waste services.

Simpler Recycling aims to simplify recycling for businesses and households, eliminating confusion about what can and can’t be recycled. The goal is to create a system where materials can be recycled in the same way across homes, workplaces, institutions and public spaces throughout England.

The introduction of legislation in England follows similar schemes in Wales (2024) and Scotland (2014).

Simpler Recycling legislation was introduced in 2023 and is being rolled out in phases. Initially applicable to businesses in England with more than 10 employees, from 31st March 2025, the legislation requires businesses, schools, hospitals and other non-household municipal premises to separate dry recycling from general waste collection. They will also be required to separate food waste, no matter how small the quantity they generate. 

From 31st March 2026, the legislation will be rolled out to local authorities, who will need to collect core recyclable waste streams from all households in England. This will include weekly food waste collections for most homes. 

Further changes will follow in 2027, with smaller firms (fewer than 10 employees) being included. The collection of plastic films from businesses and households will also be introduced.

Any business or workplace that generates waste similar in composition to domestic household waste must implement the rules across their operations. This includes all relevant non-domestic premises, such as the following:

• Offices 

• Retailers and wholesalers 

• Transport and storage 

• Hospitality, such as cafés, pubs, restaurants, and hotels 

• Places of education, such as schools, colleges, and universities 

• Healthcare places, such as GP surgeries and hospitals 

• Care homes  

• Charities and those registered as charities  

• Places of worship 

• Premises used only or mainly for public meetings

This is not a complete list, and there are others; a detailed list is included in the legislation.

From 31st March 2025, all places of work in England that fall under the legislation have a legal duty to present the following separated waste streams:

For organisations adapting to the new system, understanding the requirements and implementing changes can be complex. A structured approach will help integrate the new processes effectively. Key areas of focus include the following:

• Understanding legal obligations and collection requirements

• Developing a waste and resource management strategy

• Implementing processes for material recovery and recycling

• Exploring circular-economy initiatives and sustainable packaging design

• Engaging with stakeholders, suppliers and consumers to drive awareness

• Conducting waste mapping and lifecycle assessments to support informed decision-making

Simpler Recycling is part of a broader shift in waste and resource management, requiring all of us to reduce the amount of waste we produce and improve the way that waste is managed. The transition to a simpler, more effective recycling system is crucial to achieving net zero and fostering a  circular economy. By preparing early, businesses and local authorities can adapt to changes efficiently whilst supporting long-term sustainability goals.

For further insights into the evolving waste and resource management sector, please speak to our specialists about best practices, policy updates, and sustainable strategies.

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