Simpler Recycling has arrived (almost) - it becomes law on 31 March 2025 and there’s been lots of press about it.
For some, it just reinforces what they are already doing. For others, it might completely change how they sort and manage their internal recycling and non-recycling. Whichever describes your business, you need to be aware of the legislation, and to consider if your existing internal sorting and recycling infrastructure is adequate.
We’ve all heard of Simpler Recycling - right?
Championed BY DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs), and affecting every British business with more than 10 full-time employees, as well as non-domestic premises like schools, hospitals, nursing homes, places of worship and so on, it sets out a vision for the efficient handling of waste, ending the confusion of what can, and can’t be recycled. Simpler Recycling in England: policy update - GOV.UK
From the beginning of April, businesses will need to thoroughly separate their recycling into (1) paper and card, (2) glass and metals (cans, tins and foil) and (3) food waste. This will need to be kept separate from any non-recyclable materials as is the existing case.
Your waste collector will expect this to be done at source before collection. Waste could be refused if it is not suitably sorted so it’s worth a conversation with your handler to fully understand their expectations going forward.
The idea behind this initiative is that it will save valuable resources from going into landfills as unnecessary waste, as well as supporting the growth of the recycling sector and circular economy.
Most businesses will need to invest in new recycling bins
At the very least Simpler Recycling will encourage your employees to actively recycle, and lead to businesses investing in more, or better recycling bins across their facility.
Larger businesses will need a comprehensive internal waste management plan for the roll-out of their Simper Recycling response, whereas for smaller businesses, it might just be a case of investing in 3 or 4 more recycling bins, per office.
There are many considerations, but the key is to have sufficient recycling bins sited around your facility so that everyone has access to, and understands which bin is for what!
Practical things to consider when choosing your new bins
1. The physical size of your recycling bins is key
Business space is often at a premium, so with more stations or recycling bins required, you need to consider what shape of bin you need, and how it fits into the space you have. Maximising space must be the objective, without causing obstruction.
2. Could coloured bins work for you?
Getting employees to buy into the system is key, so having coloured, easily identifiable bins that help staff to recycle at source, might help them get used to the new requirements, and how they now need to sort waste.
3. Hygiene and safety are crucial
With a new requirement to recycle food waste separately, businesses must ensure that high standards of health, cleanliness and safety are maintained. Bad odours, vermin contamination and unpleasant sights, can be avoided with a little thought about the design of your bins. Many businesses may prefer a bin that has a secure lid for this reason.
4. Check if bins are weatherproof
Should your bins be kept outside, it’s important that they are weatherproof. Aside from that, they should also be easy to clean and disinfect, particularly if the bin is used for disposal of food waste.
5. Capacity needs to be adequate
It’s important that you invest in the correct capacity of bin (i.e.: 30 litres etc) for your environment and waste needs. Make sure you explore what’s available and don’t under-specify what you need.
The Gorilla Bin™ – your ideal recycling solution
Already widely used across equine and agriculture markets, the Gorilla Bin™ is a perfect choice for Simpler Recycling. Products – Red Gorilla
The bin is cylindrical, so takes up very little space, are available in a range of sizes (30 litres to 80 litres), come in bright colours, and with clip on lids to secure waste of any sort, particularly food. Made from HDPE (high density polyethylene), bins are also easily cleaned and will withstand extreme heat and cold as they are UV-resistant and frost-proof.
Dean Cox, Managing Director at Red Gorilla said: “Simpler Recycling is here to stay, and my business is ready to forge long-lasting partnerships with businesses looking for durable, hygienic and practical recycling bins that are up to the job. At the end of the day, simple is best. That’s why the Gorilla Bin™ is so right for Simpler Recycling!”
Making a difference
If Simpler Recycling is to make a real difference in terms of reducing landfills, discouraging illegal waste practices and simplifying how and what we recycle as we go about our daily work routines, the business community must embrace it and make an appropriate response.
Remember that Simpler Recycling places a collective duty on all employees and businesses, and those found to be non-compliant may be issued a Compliance Notice by The Environment Agency and eventually be liable for fines and/or prosecution.
In conclusion, as a starting point, speak to your refuse collector so you understand how your waste will be collected and needs to be sorted, as this may vary from region to region, and business to business. And don’t forget to order your bins – they are a crucial element of complying with Simpler Recycling.
