WHAT IS SIMPLER RECYCLING?
Simpler Recycling is a government initiative to streamline waste collection and recycling across England. The goal is to reduce confusion and increase recycling rates by standardising the types of materials collected from all households and businesses.
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) consulted on the planned Simpler Recycling in 2023 publishing the consultation finding earlier this year, stating that “reform to the recycling system which means that people across England will be able to recycle the same materials, whether at home, work or school, putting an end to the confusion over what can and cannot be recycled in different parts of the country.”
WHICH BUSINESSES DOES SIMPLER RECYCLING APPLY TO?
Depending on their size and type of activities, some businesses will be more affected than others with Simpler Recycling. A multi-premises business employing more than 10 full-time equivalent employees will be required to segregate dry mixed recycling (glass, paper and card), metal and food waste and arrange the appropriate collection services by 31st March 2025.
Microbusinesses (those with less than 10 FTE employees) are currently exempt from these requirements until 31st March 2027, but as a wider sustainability measure it would be beneficial to implement in advance of legalisation.
WHAT ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES?
The new default requirement for workplaces released in November 2024 state that four containers will be required for collecting and recycling:
- residual (non-recyclable) waste
- food waste (mixed with garden waste if appropriate)
- paper and card
- all other dry recyclable materials (plastic, metal and glass)
These may be various container types, including bags, bins or stackable boxes.
KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER:
- Clear Labeling: Ensure your waste containers are clearly labeled to avoid contamination.
- Regular Collection: Schedule regular collections for both dry recyclables and food waste.
- Proper Storage: Store waste in appropriate containers to prevent odors and pests.
BENEFITS OF SIMPLER RECYCLING
- Environmental Impact: Reduced waste and carbon emissions.
- Cost Savings: Potential cost reductions through efficient waste management.
- Enhanced Reputation: A positive image as an environmentally responsible business.
- Compliance: Adherence to government regulations and avoiding potential penalties.
We surveyed over 200 businesses to find out what they knew about Simpler Recycling. Download a copy of the report here:
HOW WARD CAN HELP YOU:
A free waste audit
A free and simple waste audit can quickly assess the volume and type of waste. From there, you work out a plan of the required container sizes and optimise collections to achieve the best value for money.
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Get clever with containers
By combining different container sizes and using flexible collections, Ward can help maximise space and reduce costs.
We can simplify collections into three containers in most workplaces, due to the processing on of the recyclables, therefore offering options for:
- Residual (non-recyclable) waste
- Food waste (mixed with garden waste if appropriate)
- Dry mixed recycling (DMR) – paper and card and all other dry recyclable materials (plastic, metal and glass)
With options including bags, wheelie bins, Front End Loaders (FELs), Skips and Roll On/Offs there’s solutions to meet all recycling requirements.
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Difficult to recycle materials
From one off asbestos removal to complete construction or hazardous waste collections, we have a dedicated team in place to help you identify, analyse and manage complex waste types. Contact us at: [email protected]
Complete waste management, recycling and reporting solutions
We offer site visits for all businesses to help set up effective recycling areas and provide an online portal for digital waste tracking and carbon emission reporting. This provides a good way to monitor and evaluate different waste streams, using the data to make more informed decisions about recycling rates, monitor activity and make regular improvements and adjustments to waste collections.
NEXT STEPS…
To increase your recycling rates and get prepared for Simpler Recycling regulation, contact our waste experts on [email protected], call on 0345 337 0000 or complete the form below:
SIMPLER RECYCLING ENQUIRY