The turn of the financial year introduced significant changes for employers. Whereas some were headlined in the Autumn Budget, others such as the introduction of new workplace recycling rules may have easily been overlooked.
From 31 March 2025, new workplace recycling legislation will come into force in England, requiring businesses to adopt stricter waste separation practices. This initiative aims to boost recycling rates, reduce landfill waste and support the country’s environmental goals.
Workplaces which are non-compliant run the risk of being reported to the Environment Agency and receiving a compliance notice and potential fines, hence the importance of ensuring awareness of the new rules effective from 31 March 2025.
As part of the government’s strategy for achieving net-zero by 2050, the new rules offer a simplified and sustainable approach to waste management for all organisations which fall under the legislation, including charities and public sector organisations.
Going forward, workplaces must ensure they separate:
- Dry recyclable materials: Plastic, metal, glass, paper, card
- Food waste
- Residual waste
Specifically, employers are required to separate paper and card from other dry recyclables, unless their waste collector allows otherwise.
Workplaces should use their discretion in deciding on the size of waste containers and the frequency of collections based on the volume of waste produced. This includes waste produced by employees, customers and any visitors.
Key dates
- 31 March 2025: All workplaces with 10+ full time employees must comply
- 31 March 2027: Micro-firms (fewer than 10 employees) fall above the threshold and must adhere to the legislation
The number of employees is based on the total across the business, such that those operating from several premises each with fewer than 10 employees must comply at each location if the total exceeds 10. Any volunteers should be excluded.
Are you compliant?
- Separate bins: install clearly labelled bins for dry recyclables, food waste, and residual waste
- Arrange waste collection: partner with a licensed waste collector to ensure separate collections for each waste stream
- Educate employees: inform staff on how to correctly use the new bin system
- Prepare for compliance checks: Maintain records of waste management practices to demonstrate compliance
By adopting these measures, businesses can help build a greener future and play their part in the UK’s sustainability efforts.
Photo by Nareeta Martin on Unsplash