Simpler Recycling: What Large Manufacturers Need to Know and Do Now
The clock is ticking for large industrial manufacturers in England to align with the government’s Simpler Recycling reforms, coming into effect by 31 March 2025. These changes are a major step forward for sustainability, aiming to create a consistent recycling system across workplaces and households.
For manufacturers, this means new responsibilities—and new opportunities to reduce waste, improve recycling rates, and lower environmental impact. Here’s everything you need to know to stay compliant and ahead of the curve.
What is Simpler Recycling?
The Simpler Recycling initiative mandates that workplaces in England collect six core waste streams separately:
- Plastic
- Metal
- Glass
- Paper and Card
- Food Waste
- Residual Waste (non-recyclable materials).
The aim? To boost recycling rates, reduce landfill, and cut carbon emissions caused by incineration or production of virgin materials.
For large manufacturers, this reform represents a shift in waste management processes, but there’s good news—there are practical allowances to simplify implementation.
Key Requirements for Large Manufacturers:
✅ Separate Collection of Core Materials
- Plastic, metal, and glass can be co-collected (combined in the same container), which simplifies operations.
- Paper and card must be collected separately unless you can prove co-collection is more practical or environmentally sound.
✅ Food Waste Collections
- Manufacturers that produce food waste—whether through cafeterias, production processes, or staff areas—will need dedicated food waste collections.
✅ Written Assessments for Co-Collection
- If you opt to combine paper and card with other recyclables, you’ll need to complete a written assessment.
- This assessment justifies the decision by considering technical feasibility, costs, and environmental impact. Templates and guidance are available from WRAP and the government.
Why These Changes Matter to Large Industrial Sites:
- Compliance: Failing to comply by the 31 March 2025 deadline can lead to enforcement action from the Environment Agency.
- Efficiency Gains: Streamlined recycling processes can improve waste management efficiency and reduce costs.
- Environmental Impact: By separating recyclable materials, large manufacturers can significantly lower their carbon footprint.
- Reputation: Meeting new recycling targets will demonstrate a commitment to sustainability—key for clients, investors, and stakeholders.
Steps to Get Ready for Simpler Recycling:
- Audit Your Current Waste Processes:
- Conduct a waste audit to understand what you generate and where improvements can be made.
- Invest in Infrastructure:
- Ensure you have the right containers and systems in place for separate collections.
- Engage with Waste Collectors:
- Work closely with your waste management provider to plan for compliant collections.
- Educate Your Teams:
- Train staff on new recycling processes to ensure participation and success.
- Complete Written Assessments (if needed):
- If combining paper/card with other recyclables, document your rationale using the provided templates.
How Waste Efficiency Can Help:
At Waste Efficiency, we specialize in supporting large industrial manufacturers with tailored waste management solutions. We can help you:
- Conduct waste audits to assess your readiness.
- Implement practical recycling plans that meet compliance deadlines.
- Simplify infrastructure upgrades to streamline processes.
- Train your teams to ensure smooth adoption.
Act Now: Key Deadline is 31 March 2025
Simpler Recycling is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s an opportunity to make a significant impact on the environment while improving your operational efficiency. Don’t wait until the last minute—take action today to stay ahead.
Ready to Simplify Your Recycling?
Contact us for a free waste management consultation and let’s get your facility compliant and future-ready.