New waste separation rules for businesses
From 31 March 2025, most workplaces in England will be legally required to separate their waste into distinct recycling streams. These changes bring business waste regulations closer in line with household recycling systems.
Who is affected?
All organisations that generate household-like waste will be required to comply, including schools, offices, healthcare settings and hospitality businesses. Smaller businesses with fewer than 10 full-time equivalent employees will have until 31 March 2027 to comply.
What waste streams must be separated?
Businesses must separate and separately collect the following five types of recyclable waste:
- Glass
- Metal
- Plastic
- Paper and card
- Food waste
Are there any exceptions?
Where it is not practical or offers no environmental benefit, businesses may collect two or more of the recyclable streams together — except for food waste, which must always be collected separately.
How should businesses prepare?
Organisations should work with their waste collection providers to update bin arrangements and collection schedules. In most cases, you’ll need:
- One bin for dry recyclables (glass, metal, plastic, paper and card)
- One bin for food waste
- One bin for general waste
There is no regulation on bin sizes or collection frequency — this must be agreed with your provider based on waste volumes.
Additional regulations still apply
These rules are in addition to existing regulations for specialised waste, including batteries, electrical and electronic waste, and end-of-life vehicles.
Where to find more information
You can read more about the changes on the Gov.uk website.
Need help preparing for the change?
We support organisations with compliance planning, environmental risk assessments and waste management reviews. Get in touch to speak to our consultants.