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Simpler Recycling Checker for England
New rules mean nearly every workplace in England has to separate its recycling and food waste. Answer three quick questions and see exactly what you must separate — and your deadline.
Important: Simpler Recycling is an England-only regime and the rules and dates below reflect our understanding as at July 2026. Rules and deadlines can change — always confirm your obligations on GOV.UK before acting. Some limited exemptions apply; this checker does not decide whether you qualify for one.
What is Simpler Recycling?
Simpler Recycling is the England-wide reform of workplace and household waste collection. It requires most workplaces to arrange separate collection of dry recyclables (plastic, metal, glass, and paper & card), food waste, and general (residual) waste — bringing consistency to what can be recycled across the country. It applies to businesses, charities, and public bodies, not just households. The rules are specific to England; Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland run their own separate schemes with different requirements.
Does my small business have to comply, and by when?
Almost certainly yes. Workplaces with 10 or more employees had to comply from 31 March 2025, so those obligations are already in force. Micro-firms with fewer than 10 employees have longer — they must comply by 31 March 2027. A small number of limited exemptions exist, so if you think an exemption might apply to you, verify it on GOV.UK rather than assuming.
What waste do I have to separate?
Most workplaces must arrange collection of dry recyclables — plastic, metal, glass, and paper & card (paper and card can be collected together or separately) — plus food waste, and general (residual) waste kept separate. In practice that usually means arranging the right containers and a collection contract with a licensed waste carrier for each stream. Exactly how streams are containerised can vary, so confirm the current requirements on GOV.UK.
Does this tool store my details?
No. This checker runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you enter — your employee count, business type, or location answer — is uploaded, saved, or sent anywhere. Refresh the page and it is gone.
Please note: this tool gives a guide or estimate only. It may not be 100% accurate and is not professional advice — always check the figures before you rely on them. Rates, thresholds, allowances and rules can change without notice and may be out of date by the time you use this tool. Verify against HMRC / GOV.UK or your accountant before acting. Everything you type stays in your browser — nothing is uploaded, saved or sent anywhere.
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