Countdown to Simpler Recycling: Is your business ready?
Date published:
By SUEZ recycling and recovery UK
With just a couple of weeks to go until the Simpler Recycling reforms take effect on 31 March 2025, the big question is – are you ready? Many businesses are still unclear on the changes and what’s required. If you’re one of them, don’t panic. Here’s a quick Q&A to help you get up to speed and ensure timely compliance for your business.
What is Simpler Recycling?
A recycling reform that requires businesses, schools, hospitals and other ‘non-household municipal premises’ in England must have separate collections for food waste and dry recyclable materials including:
- Plastic (bottles, pots, tubs and trays)
- Glass bottles and jars
- Cartons like Tetra Pak
- Paper and cardboard
This standardisation aims to cut confusion, improve recycling rates and reduce contamination by making recycling requirements consistent
Exemption: Biodegradable and compostable plastic packaging materials do not require separate collections under the new legislation.
Who needs to comply?
All businesses with 10 or more full-time employees must have compliant recycling services in place by 31 March 2025.
Smaller businesses (fewer than 10 full-time employees) have until 31 March 2027.
All businesses must also be ready to collect flexible plastics (i.e. wrappers and plastic film) by 31 March 2027.
Compliance isn’t just about following the law – it can also enhance your sustainability credentials, showing customers and partners you take environmental responsibility seriously.
What do you need to do?
1. Check with your waste provider to ensure your collections are compliant or find a new service provider.
2. Communicate with employees. Use simple, clear messaging and avoid jargon.
3. Label bins clearly and place them strategically in the workplace.
4. Encourage suppliers and partners to be compliant too, so your whole supply chain is on board.
Final takeaway: If you’re unsure, ask!
Not sure what’s happening? Ask!
Don’t know who to ask? Check with your waste provider or local authority.
Still stuck? Google Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) or the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) for guidance.
With time running out, businesses that act now will avoid stress, stay compliant and even gain a competitive advantage. Let SUEZ help you start your Simpler Recycling journey. Our friendly team is ready to support you – whether it’s expert advice or a free waste audit.Visit our Simpler Recycling page or contact us at 0800 083 0504.