%201.svg)
%201.svg)
On 31 March 2025, the government will launch its Simpler Recycling initiative across England, transforming how businesses manage their waste. The new rules aim to make recycling easier, reduce landfill use, and standardise how waste is collected and treated.
The main goal is to ensure that food waste, glass, metal, plastic, card, and paper are collected separately from general waste. This means that companies will need general waste bins, mixed waste bins, and food waste caddies on their premises.
Will my business be affected?
Yes, almost certainly. According to gov.uk, 'any business or workplace premises that generates waste that is similar in nature and composition to household waste' must align with Simpler Recycling regulations.
When will the changes happen?
Most organisations will need to adhere to Simpler Recycling rules from 31 March 2025. However, companies with fewer than ten employees have more time to comply.
- 31 March 2025 – Core recycling must be collected from large and small businesses, including separate food waste stream
- 31 March 2026 – Local authorities must implement standardised core recycling collections with weekly food waste
- 31 March 2027 – Micro-businesses (fewer than 10 employees) must comply; plastic film included in collections
What changes do I need to make to stay compliant?
You'll need to sort waste into three streams: dry recyclable waste (glass, metal, plastic, paper and cardboard), food waste, and black bin waste.
How should I prepare my business?
- Appoint a waste collector for dry recycling, food waste, and black bin collections
- Discuss waste volume with your collector and choose appropriate container sizes
- Purchase general waste bins, mixed waste bins, and food waste caddies
- Train your team on requirements and proper separation procedures
Last updated
March 12, 2025
Opus Safety
Health & safety insights
Guidance, updates and practical advice for your sector.
On the Radar: Local Authority Enforcement Priorities (2026–2029)
The HSE's LAC 67/2 strategy sets council inspection priorities for 2026-2029, shifting towards health risks. What local-authority-regulated businesses should check now.
HSE prosecutions: The cost of poor compliance
Four recent HSE prosecutions - occupational asthma, severed fingers, a lost leg and a fall from height - and the basic controls that would have prevented each.
The RIDDOR public consultation: What it means for you
The HSE's 2026 RIDDOR consultation proposes five reforms to incident reporting. What the changes mean for duty holders, and what to do before it closes on 30 June.
How to Report Health and Safety Incidents Involving Employees Under RIDDOR
How to Report Health and Safety Concerns under RIDDOR, including reportable incidents, key deadlines and compliant recordkeeping.
Do You Need an Asbestos Survey for Your Workplace?
Do you need an asbestos survey? Learn your legal duties, survey types and how to manage asbestos risks in your workplace safely.
Who Is Responsible for Health and Safety? Legionella Duties Explained
Who Is Responsible for Health and Safety? Legionella Duties Explained. Learn UK duty holder responsibilities and Legionella risk assessment duties.
Workplace Noise Assessments: Protecting Your Employees
Workplace noise assessments help protect employees, meet UK legal duties, and prevent noise-induced hearing loss. Book expert support.
HSE prosecutions: lessons from four recent enforcement cases
Four recent HSE prosecutions across builders merchants, manufacturing, waste and vehicle maintenance show why machinery guarding, hazardous substance controls and workplace transport segregation remain non-negotiable.
Martyn's Law: Navigating the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025
A practical guide to Martyn's Law - who it applies to, the standard and enhanced tiers, your core duties, and what businesses should do now to prepare.
Employer Health and Safety Responsibilities: Manual Handling Guide
Employer manual handling guide covering UK legal duties, risk assessments, MSD prevention, TILE controls and safety training.
Why businesses choose
Opus Safety
We've worked across UK industry for years. The numbers show what our clients achieve when compliance becomes a strength, not a burden.
%201.svg)
