Simpler Recycling: Don't get caught out with the new legislation

Introduced in 2023 by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the Simpler Recycling initiative aims to transform waste management practices and minimise environmental harm. At Heyn Environmental, we recognise the importance of this legislation and are here to support your journey toward compliance and sustainability.

What Is Simpler Recycling?

This landmark legislation introduces stricter requirements for businesses, households, and municipalities, with the goal of improving recycling rates, reducing landfill dependency, and tackling plastic pollution. The initiative is being implemented in three key phases:

Phase 1: March 2025
Businesses with 10 or more FTE and non-household premises must separate and collect core recyclable materials, including glass, paper, card, metals, and plastics. Food waste must also be collected separately.

Phase 2: March 2026
Local authorities must implement standardised core recycling collections, including weekly food waste collections for households.

Phase 3: March 2027
Micro-businesses with fewer than 10 employees must comply, and plastic film must be included in the plastic waste stream.

Who Is Affected?

The Simpler Recycling rules apply to any business or workplace premises generating waste similar in nature and composition to household waste. This includes:

• Offices and retail outlets
• Cafés, restaurants, and hotels
• Schools, colleges, and universities
• GP surgeries, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities
• Care homes and residential hostels

Key Aspects of the Legislation

Mandatory Recycling for Businesses
All businesses with 10 or more employees must separate waste into categories to enhance recycling rates.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
Manufacturers will be held accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, ensuring sustainable production and waste reduction.

Ban on Single-Use Plastics
Single-use plastics, including straws, utensils, and certain food packaging materials, will be banned. Businesses must transition to sustainable alternatives.

Increased Landfill Taxes
Higher landfill taxes will make recycling and composting more cost-effective than landfill disposal.

Household Waste Separation
Households must separate waste into recyclables, organic waste, and residual waste, with penalties for noncompliance.

How Heyn Environmental Can Help

At Heyn Environmental, we’re committed to helping businesses navigate these changes and achieve compliance. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Conduct a Waste Audit
   
   Identify the types and amounts of waste your business produces. Try a trial waste segregation for one week, separating waste by type and quantifying it using weight measurements or counting bin bags. Share this information with us, and we’ll advise on the appropriate waste containers to suit your needs.
2. Be Proactive
   
   Start your audit early to ensure timely compliance and avoid legislative fines. Acting now allows you to order the necessary recycling bins in advance, boosting your recycling rates and easing the transition.
   
   
3. Use the Right Containers
   
   Proper waste sorting at your premises enhances material quality, reduces contamination risks, and supports compliance with the new rules.
   
   
4. Start Now
   
   Begin adopting the new recycling practices today. This will prepare you for the March 2025 audit and ensure a smoother transition.

Why Choose Heyn Environmental?

Our comprehensive guide and range of products are designed to make compliance with Simpler Recycling effortless for your business. From expert advice to tailored waste management solutions, Heyn Environmental is your trusted partner for a greener, more sustainable future.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business comply with the new regulations and lead the way in environmental responsibility.