Bunzl Catering Supplies is advising its customers about the UK Government’s forthcoming ‘Simpler Recycling’ policy as part of its ‘Sustainable Future’ communication programme.

The UK Government has introduced the new policy to simplify and streamline waste collection in England. ‘Simpler Recycling’ creates a universal standard for waste collection from all households, businesses and relevant non-domestic premises (like schools and hospitals) across England, ensuring that citizens can recycle the same materials in every region.

Households and workplaces will be required to separate their waste into 4 separate containers: residual (non-recyclable) waste, food waste (mixed with garden waste if appropriate), paper and card, and all other dry recyclable materials (plastic, metal, glass). It is hoped that consistency in waste separation across the country will reduce confusion around recycling.

The ‘Simpler Recycling’ policy commences on 31st March 2025, when businesses and relevant non-domestic premises in England must arrange the collection of glass, metal, plastic, paper and card, and food waste (micro-firms* are temporarily exempt).

Businesses in the hospitality sector can get prepared in advance by starting a conversation with their recycling and waste collector now, making sure that they can collect their separated recycling. Hospitality operators might consider investing in their recycling infrastructure, such as signage and internal and external bins, and they should communicate the incoming changes to employees to ensure they are aware of and educated about the reform.

By 31st March 2026, local authorities will be required to collect the core recyclable waste streams from all households in England, including a weekly food waste collection. And by 31st March 2027, kerbside plastic film collections from businesses, relevant non-domestic premises, and households will be introduced. Micro-firms must now comply with the business requirements for waste separation and collection.

Bunzl Catering Supplies continues to work closely with its hospitality customers to navigate an increasingly complex legislative landscape in food service packaging and is encouraging its customers to make contact to discuss the ‘Simpler Recycling’ policy and any new requirements they may have for bins and refuse sacks.  Click here to view the Sustainable Future ‘Simpler Recycling’ Policy Factsheet.

*Businesses with fewer than 10 full-time equivalent employees.