England to streamline waste collection with "Simpler Recycling" policy

England to streamline waste collection with "Simpler Recycling" policy

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

M&S Food trials recyclable paper fibre trays for ready meals
Sustainability

M&S Food trials recyclable paper fibre trays for ready meals

Marks & Spencer is piloting a new recyclable tray made from paper fibre for one of its most...
YPS: Pack consistency improved whilst increasing production speed for pharmaceutical manufacturer
Supplier News

YPS: Pack consistency improved whilst increasing production speed for pharmaceutical manufacturer

A leading producer in the pharmaceutical industry has recently upgraded its packaging lines with...
Lucozade Energy unveils £6m sustainable packaging overhaul
Sustainability

Lucozade Energy unveils £6m sustainable packaging overhaul

Lucozade producer Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I (SBF GB&I) has invested £6.3 million in...
Syntegon delivers record results in 2024
Supplier News

Syntegon delivers record results in 2024

The Syntegon Group, a leading strategic partner to the global pharmaceutical, biotech and food...
Lyte Packaging: Sustainable trigger spray pouch shortlisted for Environmental Packaging Awards 2025
Supplier News

Lyte Packaging: Sustainable trigger spray pouch shortlisted for Environmental Packaging Awards 2025

Lyte Packaging is proud to share that Project 7, a division of Lyte Manufacturing Group, has been...