Under new regulations, all non-household premises (including businesses, schools, and public buildings) will be required to separate recyclable waste into standard categories—no matter where you're located in England from April 2025.

The goal?

• Cut confusion

• Improve recycling quality

• Reduce what goes to landfill

• Help businesses operate more sustainably

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You’ll need to separate and recycle the following:

• Glass (bottles and jars)

• Metal (cans and foil)

• Plastic (bottles, pots, tubs, trays)

• Paper and cardboard

• Food waste

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These will need to be stored separately either in your bins or by your waste contractor—so planning ahead is key.

Weekly food waste recycling will become mandatory for all businesses that produce it. This applies to any organisation that serves food or deals with perishables.

You’ll need to use:

• Clearly labelled food bins

• Caddies for internal collection

• Proper liners (if required by your provider)

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Your waste will be used to generate renewable energy or compost.

These materials won’t be accepted in standard business recycling collections and must be dealt with separately:

• Soft plastics (e.g. plastic wrap, film)

• Batteries and electronics

• Hazardous materials

• Textiles

• Certain packaging types

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Speak with your waste service provider for correct disposal methods.

Your existing waste contractor may need to provide new containers or adjust current collection schedules. Expect:

• Clearly marked bins or sacks for different waste streams

• Possible changes in frequency of pickups

• Guidance on staff training and signage

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Ask your provider how they’re preparing to meet these new requirements.

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If your business shares waste facilities (e.g., offices in shared buildings or retail units in a complex), coordination will be essential.

Property managers and tenants will need to work together to ensure proper separation and compliance.

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• From April 2025: All businesses must comply with the new rules.

• Some councils or waste providers may implement changes earlier or run pilots.

• You’ll receive updates and instructions before the rollout.

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• Audit your current waste streams—what do you throw away, and where does it go?

• Speak to your waste provider about upcoming changes.

• Train staff on separating waste properly.

• Plan for food waste bins and space requirements.

• Taking action early will ensure a smooth transition—and may reduce your waste costs in the long term.