New Food Waste Regulations for 2025

On 31st March 2025, new recycling regulations will come into effect, requiring businesses across England to ensure that all food waste is separated out from other waste streams and presented separately for collection by an approved contractor.

As per the new government legislation, all non-household municipal premises in England, excluding micro-firms (businesses with fewer than 10 full-time equivalent employees), will be required to comply with the following regulations:

• Separate food waste collections: You must arrange for separate collection of your food waste, diverting it from general waste streams.
• Compliant waste presentation: Food waste must be presented in a manner that adheres to the new legislation.

These regulations are designed to improve the quality and quantity of waste generated by all businesses including hospitals & care homes, offices & warehouse, schools & colleges, garages and transport hubs.

Commercial food waste legislation has been in place in Scotland since 2014, and the legislation was introduced in Wales in April 2024. Businesses generating more than 5kg of food waste every week are likely to have to comply with the new regulations.

By staying informed and acting now, your business can set a positive example and be at the forefront of environmentally friendly food waste management.