Waste separation rules have changed – your step-by-step guide on what to do
As of 31 March 2025, the rules around how businesses handle waste have changed. But don’t worry – we’ve broken it down into easy steps to keep you compliant and feeling good about doing your bit for the planet.
Step 1: Count your crew
Got 10 or more employees? Time to separate your business waste into four different bins.
Got fewer than 10? You’ve got until 31 March 2027 to get sorted but no harm in doing your bit sooner!
Step 2: Rethink your bins
Still rocking a bin under every desk? Now’s the time to switch things up.
Swap those solo bins for central waste stations – one easy-to-find spot with all four bin types. It keeps things tidy and helps everyone separate waste properly.
Step 3: Know your bins
Each bin has its purpose, and the new rules want us to be pros at sorting.
You’ll need bins for:
- General Waste
- Food Waste
- Paper & Cardboard
- Dry Recycling (Glass, Metal & Recyclable Plastics)
Step 4: Colour code bins like a pro
Help your team bin it right with colour-coded lids – a simple (and kinda fun) way to make sorting second nature.
Step 5: Label, label, label
Pop clear, easy-to-read labels on each bin so your team knows what goes where – no guesswork required. You can download labels, just scroll down this page. Slip them into an adhesive Duraframe and you’re good to go.
Step 6: Spread the word
Tell your team what’s changing and why it matters.
If desk bins are disappearing, let them know where the new waste stations are and why this change is a good thing. (Spoiler: it saves money and the planet.)
Top tip: Put up signs near the bins to remind everyone what goes where.
Step 7: Save money, stay legal
Make sure waste is going in the right bins, and use translucent bin liners to easily spot when things are off. Plus, landfill tax just jumped 21% (ouch!), so the more you recycle correctly, the more you save.
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