Environment Agency charge proposals for simpler recycling

Overview

We are consulting on our proposal to introduce a new hourly rate (time and materials charge) for businesses or occupiers of relevant non-domestic premises that are not complying with the requirements of simpler recycling: workplace recycling in England (simpler recycling). This includes micro-businesses who will not come into scope of simpler recycling until 31 March 2027.

Government policy on delivering simpler recycling in England requires dry recyclable waste to be collected separately from food waste and residual waste. This applies for waste collected from businesses and relevant non-domestic premises from 31 March 2025 (except micro-firms with less than 10 full time equivalent employees, who are exempt until 31 March 2027).

From 31 March 2025, simpler recycling requires businesses and occupiers of relevant non-domestic premises in England to present dry recyclable waste (paper and card, plastic, metal, glass), food waste and residual (non-recyclable) waste, separated from each other in accordance with the arrangements made with their waste collector. The requirement also exists for waste collectors to collect recyclable waste separately from other relevant (residual) waste for recycling or composting. Refer to the glossary at the end of the consultation document for definitions of terms used in this document, such as relevant non-domestic premises.

The simpler recycling requirements will be a significant step towards meeting the government’s ambition to recycle 65% of municipal waste by 2035. Failure to regulate would have a detrimental effect on the environment and reduce the chances of this target being met. Our new regulatory service will help us achieve increased recycling rates and protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from landfill.

We are committed to making sure our charges are fair and transparent. We want them to reflect the full cost of the chargeable services we provide.

About this consultation

This consultation includes:

• a consultation document that lays out our proposal to update the charging scheme
• draft charging scheme
• the consultation response form

These documents are available in the 'related' section at the bottom of this page. 

Why your views matter

We would like to know if you agree with our proposals and to hear your suggestions on whether we can make them fairer in any way.

Please share your views on our charge proposal to recover the costs of our regulatory activities where businesses and relevant non-domestic premises do not comply with the rules of simpler recycling.