Starting in March 2025, new waste management rules government regulations will require all non-household municipal properties in England (with the exception of micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 full-time workers) to follow the following requirements. Businesses must arrange for food waste to be collected separately from their general waste, diverting it to specialized waste streams. All food waste must also be presented according to the guidelines outlined in the new regulations.
What Does the New Legislation Involve?
These new waste management rules legislation is designed to improve the quality of waste management across England by mandating that businesses, public sector bodies, and third-sector organizations handle recyclable materials similarly to how households do. Specifically, food waste must be separated and collected when generated by any non-domestic premises. This will apply to businesses, hospitals, schools, care homes, offices, and other non-residential locations. The regulations will officially take effect on March 31, 2025, so it is essential that businesses understand the requirements in advance.
A Look at Existing Legislation in Scotland and Wales
Scotland introduced food waste regulations for businesses back in 2014, and Wales implemented similar rules in April 2024. Companies producing over 5kg of food waste weekly will likely be subject to the upcoming English regulations as well.
By acting early, your business can lead the way in sustainable waste practices and gain a competitive edge.
What’s Required of Your Business by 2025?
By March 31, 2025, businesses will need to have set up separate storage and collection processes for food waste. This involves determining what types of waste your business generates, how frequently, and how to store and collect it to ensure compliance with the new rules.
Steps to Take
Identify the types and amounts of waste produced by your business.
Review and update your current waste management practices.
Partner with approved food waste collection providers to establish an effective system.
Familiarize yourself with the details of the new regulations to stay fully compliant.
Benefits for Your Business
Optimizing your waste collection services may help you reduce costs.
Separating and recycling food waste enhances your business’s sustainability efforts.
Avoid fines and protect your business reputation by having a compliant waste system in place.
Why Separate Food Waste?
Mixing food waste with general waste typically leads to incineration or landfilling, wasting the potential benefits of this resource. Separating food waste allows it to be processed into renewable energy and organic fertilizers. This helps support a circular economy, benefiting both the environment and businesses.
In addition, food waste disposal costs can be reduced, as food waste is heavy and adds to general waste collection fees.
What Can Be Collected?
Food waste collections will include all food intended for human or pet consumption. Also Biodegradable by-products such as bones, eggshells, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and more.
Get Ready for Compliance
Complying with the upcoming regulations not only benefits the environment but can also enhance your business. By acting now, you can ensure that your business is well-prepared, avoiding any disruptions or penalties when the legislation takes effect.
Avoid Fines and Protect Your Business
Staying compliant will help your business avoid legal risks and financial penalties, safeguarding your brand reputation in the process.
How Workspace Designs Can Support You
Workspace Designs, a UK-based office furnishings supplier, specializes in providing stylish and compliant recycling bin solutions. In business for 20 years and experienced in supporting many businesses in Scotland and Wales during their legislative transitions. We have the knowledge to guide you through the upcoming changes in England.
Next Steps for Your Business
Contact Workspace Designs today to start planning for the upcoming waste management requirements. We can look at your waste streams, office recycling bin types, and costs, then tailor a solution that ensures you stay compliant with the new regulations.
See our stylish range of office recycling bins and contact us for more information