Earlier this year Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) confirmed a series of changes to the UK's recycling system that will impact both households and businesses. The key elements of these reforms include standardising recycling collections and mandating that residual waste be collected at least every fortnight.
Here’s a quick rundown of what this means:
Under the new regulations, there will be a minimum of three bins for household waste: one for dry recycling, one for organic waste, and one for residual waste. Businesses will need to align with these new standards by March 2025. Notably, local authorities will have the option to co-collect food and garden waste in a single bin if they choose.
Defra has decided that residual waste must be collected at least every two weeks.
The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has expressed concern over this fortnightly cap, advocating for a three-weekly option instead.
CIWM’s Lee Marshall pointed out, “The stance on restricting options of residual frequency is baffling given the overwhelming evidence that restricting residual reduces costs and increases recycling.” Local authorities are concerned about the financial implications of these changes. Sam Chapman-Allen of the District Councils’ Network criticized the Government for not providing sufficient funding, stating, “Typical investment of nearly £1m in new waste vehicles would be required by each district council.” He added that unrealistic timelines could make the reforms unviable.
As part of the extended producer responsibility, packaging will need to be clearly labelled to indicate whether it is recyclable. This measure is expected to reduce confusion and support the simpler recycling system. Patrick Brighty of the Environmental Services Association (ESA) highlighted the need for flexibility, saying, “Councils will need to demonstrate that their service choices deliver the efficient and effective recycling performance required by the new packaging EPR regime.”
Businesses will face a transition to new recycling practices by March 2025. They should prepare for changes in how waste is collected and managed, with a focus on complying with the new standardised recycling rules and adapting to the EPR requirements. While these reforms aim to streamline recycling and improve environmental outcomes, they also come with challenges, including potential increases in operational costs.
For businesses, staying informed and prepared will be crucial to navigating these changes effectively and ensuring compliance with the new recycling standards.
Associations play a pivotal role in helping businesses navigate these upcoming recycling reforms. As organisations that will also be affected by the new standards themselves, they must stay informed and adapt their own practices accordingly.
More importantly, associations need to provide robust support and guidance to their members to ensure a smooth transition. By offering resources and support, associations can help businesses not only comply with the new regulations but also leverage these changes to enhance their sustainability efforts.
---
At CAFA, we empower associations to take the lead by providing guidance and vital support, including assistance with developing climate strategies and emissions reporting. Through promoting peer to peer learning, we help associations fulfil their sustainability commitments effectively, ensuring they can thrive and adapt in an ever-changing world.
Learn more here.
Comments