Under the new Simpler Recycling legislation, businesses with 10 or more full-time employees in North East Derbyshire will be required to separate their waste into three categories from March 31st, 2025. Micro-firms with fewer than 10 employees have until March 2027 to comply.
The changes are part of the government’s efforts to simplify recycling and help achieve the national recycling target of 65%. Businesses must arrange separate collections for mixed dry recycling, food waste, and residual waste. Mixed dry recycling covers glass, plastics, paper, cardboard, and metal. Food waste includes leftovers and prep waste like peelings, tea bags, and coffee grounds, while residual waste consists of non-recyclable items such as hygiene products and contaminated packaging.
The new rules apply to businesses and workplaces producing waste similar to household waste, including offices, retail, hospitality, education, and healthcare sectors. Micro-firms are exempt until March 2027. Businesses should review their waste management systems to ensure they are prepared for the new requirements.