New Commercial Waste Regulations 2025: What Businesses Need to Know

Major changes to commercial waste regulations are coming into effect on March 31, 2025, as part of the Environment Act 2021. These new rules will significantly impact how businesses handle their waste management and recycling obligations.

Key Requirements for Businesses

For organizations with 10 or more employees, mandatory waste separation becomes a legal requirement. The most significant change is the introduction of separate food waste collection for businesses producing over 5kg weekly. Additionally, companies must implement comprehensive dry recycling separation from general waste.

Required Recycling Categories

Businesses must segregate the following materials:

• Glass bottles and jars
• Metals including cans, aerosols, foil, and trays
• Plastics (PET, PP, HDPE bottles, containers, and films)
• Paper and cardboard (excluding items with glitter, foil, or lamination)
• Drink cartons

Environmental Impact

These regulations aim to reduce environmental impact through proper waste management. Key benefits include minimized carbon footprints through local processing facilities and the conversion of food waste to biogas for the National Grid.

Ensuring Compliance

To comply with these new regulations, businesses should:

• Audit current waste production levels
• Implement separate collection systems for food waste and recyclables
• Partner with licensed waste carriers
• Train staff on new separation requirements

For guidance on implementing these changes or to discuss your waste management needs, contact MCC Partners at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01474 619 990.