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A big change is coming to waste management in England. Starting March 2025, new mandatory waste legislation will require businesses to separate food waste for collection and recycling as part of the UK’s effort to improve sustainability and reduce landfill use.

Concerned your business might not be ready for the new rules?

Don’t worry, with the right steps, you can stay compliant and keep things running smoothly. Let’s walk through what’s changing, who’s affected, and how to prepare.

What is the New Waste Legislation?

Coming into effect 31^st March 2025, the new UK Waste Legislation requires businesses in England to separate food waste from general waste. This means no more tossing food scraps in the same bin as everything else. Instead, food waste must be collected separately and handled by authorised waste carriers.

Here are the key points for businesses:

• All food waste must be separated from general rubbish
• Businesses must be partnered with approved waste carriers
• New recycling targets will aim to reduce landfill waste and methane emissions

This legislation is a major step toward making waste management more efficient and environmentally friendly, helping the UK produce renewable energy sources, such as biogas and fertilisers.

Who’s Affected by the New Legislation?

All businesses will need to follow these new rules except micro-firms (companies containing fewer than 10 full-time employees), which are exempt. The new rules will be most relevant to the following sectors:

• Hospitality and catering – Restaurants, cafés, hotels, and takeaways
• Retailers – Supermarkets, grocery stores, and corner shops
• Education providers – Schools, colleges, and universities with food services
• Healthcare – Hospitals and GP surgeries
• Workplaces – Offices with staff kitchens or canteens

Businesses will need to comply with the new legislation, no matter how big or small your waste output is. For a comprehensive list of businesses and sectors covered by these regulations, check out the UK government’s waste regulations page.

What Does Your Business Need to Do to Prepare?

Getting ready for the new waste legislation doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple checklist to help you stay on track:

1. Review your current waste practices – Check how you currently handle food waste and identify any areas for improvement
2. Introduce food waste bins – Set up separate bins for food waste in kitchens, canteens, and dining areas and use clear signage to guide staff and customers
3. Choose a compliant waste carrier – Make sure your waste disposal partner can handle food waste separately. It’s important to ensure your waste carrier is approved and listed on the Environment Agency’s official waste carrier register.
4. Train your team – Educate employees on how to separate food waste and why it matters
5. Upgrade your facility supplies – Equip your business with appropriate waste bins, recycling stations, and signs to make compliance straightforward
   

Banner's Compliant Solutions

Banner can ensure a compliant route that meets the requirements of the new regulations, working closely with you to identify the best solutions for your workplace.

We are proud to be on multiple Public Sector frameworks: 

• HealthTrust Europe
• Welsh Government Commercial Delivery Division (WGCD)
• NHS Supply Chain 
• North Eastern Universities Purchasing Consortium (NEUPC)
• North Western Universities Purchasing Consortium (NWUPC)

View Banner's full list of frameworks here.

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What Are the Risks If You Don’t Comply?

Ignoring the new rules can lead to some serious implications, including:

• Fines and penalties –There will be stricter, higher fines for companies failing to comply

• Legal issues – Falling short of the new rules can put your business at legal risk

• Reputation damage – Consumers are more eco-conscious than ever — don’t let non-compliance hurt your brand

Preparing now will help you avoid these risks and keep your business running smoothly. Details on potential fines and penalties for non-compliance are outlined in the official waste management regulations.

The 2025 waste legislation is a significant step towards better sustainability and waste management. By taking the right steps now, you can avoid potential pitfalls and support the UK’s broader environmental goals.

Banner offers a wide range of facility supplies to help you adapt seamlessly, from waste bins and signage to recycling solutions.

Need advice or support? Browse our catalogue or email contact.banner@BannerUK.com and the Banner team will advise you on everything you’ll need.