As of the 31st of March 2025, there will be new legislation coming into place that will impact how businesses in England must handle their waste. But before we start discussing the best ways to go about adhering to the new legislation, lets quickly review the legislation and who it is going to impact.
Why is the law changing?
The government is looking to improve the manner in which recycling in managed across various industries. This is an important step towards reaching zero waste, reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change.
Who needs to comply?
So, the new legislation only comes into effect in England on account of Scotland and Wales already making changes to their business waste separation laws in 2014 and 2024 respectively. Businesses that will be required to follow these new regulations are those which employ more than 10 full-time employees and generate waste similar in nature and composition to household waste.
How to comply?
The legislation requires businesses to separate the following materials for collection in accordance with the arrangements of their waste collector:
- Dry Recyclable Materials: Plastic, metal, glass, paper, card
- Food Waste
- Black Bin Waste (residual waste)
The new regulation states that businesses cannot dispose of “recycling relevant waste” unless it has undergone proper treatment:
- On-site separation: Paper and Card must be separated from other dry recyclables unless your waste collector collects them both.
- Food Waste Disposal Restrictions: Businesses cannot use equipment like macerators or dewatering systems to dispose of food waste or food waste liquids into drains or sewers.
Workplaces that generate garden waste have a legal duty to manage it in accordance with the waste hierarchy and arrange for it to be recycled or composted; whichever delivers the best environmental outcome.
Workplace Recycling Options
The best way to comply with the new legislation is by installing a waste management system which is easy for your employees and customers to use. The simplest way to do so is with a colour coded bin system as this offers users a clear and well communicated waste disposal solution which can be followed easily.
There are many options available on the market but the options we’d suggest are:
- Slim Jim Vented Bins – This solution excels in tight spaces whilst their slim vented design still allows for effortless liner removal. They benefit from reinforced rims and have a wide range of colours to choose from.
- Stream Recycling Kit – Perfect for any commercial establishment, the recycling station uses components that snap into place meaning not hardware is required when installing.
- Configure Waste Container Kit – Equipped with rounded easy-glide feet that allow for easy movement of the bins, the Configure containers offer a heavy-gauge galvanised steel option with colour-coded labels and graphics for easy use.
If you are unsure how the new legislation is going to affect your business contact your local Alliance Depot to chat to our friendly local teams. One of our reps can come out to your premises and advise you on how best to implement a waste management system that will work for you. Contact us on 01270 252333 or email us on hello@allianceonline.co.uk.
