Casepak calls for Simpler Recycling policy to be better communicated
The Government’s Simpler Recycling legislation came into effect in England on 31 March 2025 for workplaces with more than 10 employees. The legislation stipulated that those affected workplaces have to arrange for the separate collection of dry recyclable materials (including plastic, metal and glass); paper and card; food waste and residual (non-recyclable) waste.
On 31 March 2026 the same rules will apply to all households across the UK, with local authorities required to collect the core recyclable waste streams from all households in England. This includes introducing weekly food waste collections for most homes. Then from 31 March 2027, workplaces with fewer than 10 employees will have to arrange for the recycling of the core recyclable waste streams. Kerbside plastic film collections from businesses and relevant non-domestic premises and households will also be introduced.
At the time of the implementation, the Circular Economy Minister, Mary Creagh, stated: “Simplifying the rules for workplaces will make recycling easier, maximising environmental benefits, delivering cost savings and stimulating growth.” As well as the changes for businesses, the responsibility for regulating the new legislation passed to the Environment Agency.
Since the implementation of the new legislation and the rollout of Simpler Recycling, there has been criticism about the communications and education around the new rules, with claims that while most large businesses are broadly meeting the regulations, many still remain outside of compliance. It is hoped that the commercial rollout has provided valuable lessons to inform the best way to implement the household phase, and the subsequent small business phase.
Waste and recycling industry leaders, including Casepak, are now calling for a widespread awareness campaign in advance of the next two phases of implementation, like WRAP’s Recycle Now campaign, to ensure that what is a very positive development for recycling in the UK, is implemented smoothly.
As Simpler Recycling continues to roll our over the next few years, in addition to other policies and legislation, we are here to keep you informed! It is never to early to understand what is changing and how to best prepare.