England to streamline waste collection with "Simpler Recycling" policy

Image of Municipal collections in residential community credit Biffa
Sustainability

England is set to introduce the "Simpler Recycling" policy, aiming to unify waste collection systems across households, businesses, and public institutions such as schools and hospitals.

The initiative seeks to eliminate regional disparities in recycling practices, addressing the long-standing "postcode lottery" that has led to inconsistencies and confusion.

Under the new framework, all households and workplaces will sort waste into four standard categories: non-recyclable waste, food waste (potentially mixed with garden waste), paper and card, and a combined category for plastic, metal, and glass recyclables. These materials will be collected in various containers like bins, bags, or stackable boxes.

Businesses and non-domestic premises will need to arrange for the collection of recyclable streams, including glass, metal, plastic, paper, card, and food waste, by March 2025, although small businesses with fewer than ten employees are exempt until 2027. For households, local authorities are set to implement the changes by March 2026.

Image of Municipal collections in residential community © Biffa

The government plans to formalise the policy through secondary legislation expected this December, further supporting its drive toward a circular economy by reducing waste and increasing recycling rates.

Latest Packaging News

Absolut trials 'industry-first' paper cap and bottle combo
Sustainability

Absolut trials 'industry-first' paper cap and bottle combo

Absolut has taken another step in its sustainable packaging journey by trialling an industry-first...
Paramount Packaging Systems: Fast-track flow wrapping solution for leading food producer
Supplier News

Paramount Packaging Systems: Fast-track flow wrapping solution for leading food producer

The challenge When a long-standing food manufacturer experienced the sudden failure of two vital...
Spectra helps Bumboo clean up sustainably with 100% POP PCR bottles
Supplier News

Spectra helps Bumboo clean up sustainably with 100% POP PCR bottles

Spectra proudly partnered with Bumboo on their latest innovation, a reusable household cleaning...
King's Hawaiian unveils fresh packaging design for 75th anniversary
Business

King's Hawaiian unveils fresh packaging design for 75th anniversary

King's Hawaiian, known for its popular sweet rolls and other baked goods in America, has introduced...
Fiat unveils car featuring parts made from recycled beverage cartons
Sustainability

Fiat unveils car featuring parts made from recycled beverage cartons

Beverage cartons have found a new life as part of a groundbreaking development for the automotive...