Changing Waste Management Legislation 2025

Get Ready for New Waste Management Regulations in 2025
New recycling laws will come into force in England on March 31, 2025. They require all businesses with 10 or more employees to separate dry mixed recyclables (DMR) and food waste from general waste. These regulations are part of the government’s push toward reducing landfill usage, promoting sustainability, and streamlining waste management practices for businesses.
If your business isn’t already prepared, now’s the time to act!
At Comax, we understand that adapting to new regulations can be challenging. That’s why we offer not only an extensive waste management range but also the expertise to guide you through compliance with these new rules.
Browse Recycling Bin Solutions Here
Most Common Challenges
Items such as paper, plastic, and metal are often thrown into regular bins, contaminating recyclable materials and making them harder to process. Disposable coffee cups are another common issue—they are widely used but difficult to recycle due to their plastic lining. Businesses also struggle with the misuse of black and clear bags, with many placing recyclable materials in black bags meant for general waste, which results in recyclables being sent to landfills.
Poor waste management can lead to increased costs, as landfill collection fees are significantly higher than recycling costs. In fact, these fees are set to rise by 20% under the new legislation, further impacting businesses’ bottom lines. Additionally, poor waste management can damage a company’s reputation. With 87% of consumers now expecting brands to act sustainably, failing to address waste management could harm public perception and customer loyalty.
Food waste is a significant contributor to both financial and environmental issues. Globally, one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted, contributing to 8-10% of total greenhouse gas emissions. In the UK alone, 40% of food waste ends up in landfills, exacerbating the environmental impact. For businesses, the costs are substantial—the average hospitality business spends £50,000 annually on food waste disposal. Reducing and properly managing food waste not only helps the environment but can also significantly lower operational costs.
Addressing these issues early on is essential to ensure compliance with the upcoming 2025 regulations and to make waste management more efficient and sustainable.
What do the regulations mean for your business?
From 2025, businesses will need to:
Separate dry mixed recyclables (Such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal) from general waste.
Manage food waste separately, ensuring it does not end up in your regular bins.
This change will impact a wide range of sectors, from hospitality to office spaces. Companies that fail to comply may face fines or other enforcement actions, so staying ahead of the regulations is crucial.
What’s the solution?
Waste Segregation Systems
We offer a variety of bins and containers to help you easily sort dry mixed recyclables and food waste. Whether you’re looking for colour-coded bins, recycling stations or specialist food waste containers, our waste management range make the process seamless.
Expert Advice on Waste Management
Need help setting up an efficient waste management system? Our team of experts can offer tailored solutions that fit your business size, ensuring you’re compliant with the new laws. By preparing now, your business can avoid potential penalties and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. We’re committed to supporting you through these regulatory changes. Contact us today for expert advice on how to make your waste management system 2025-ready!