J&B News & Updates

03.06.25

It’s been just over two month since the government’s Simpler Recycling reforms began rolling out across the UK, and we’ve been helping businesses adapt to these changes.

The legislation, aimed at improving consistency in waste collections across England, means that all businesses with more than 10 employees are now required to separate out key waste streams – including food waste, dry mixed recycling, and glass. As a waste management company with decades of experience supporting commercial clients, we were well prepared for the changes – and so far, we’re seeing positive results.

Strong Uptake from Businesses

We’ve seen a significant increase in demand for advice and collections, especially around food waste – which many businesses are dealing with separately for the first time. Our dedicated food waste truck, launched just before the changes came into effect, has already collected more than 10 tonnes of food waste from local businesses since 1st April 2025. That’s around 30,000 meals' worth of waste that’s being sustainably managed – not just kept out of landfill and incineration, but turned into renewable energy and nutrient-rich fertiliser through anaerobic digestion.

Helping Businesses Get It Right

Whilst the legislation of simpler recycling is straightforward, implementing it can be overwhelming and daunting for businesses. Which is why our team has been working closely with clients to make things easier – helping them assess their internal setups, supply the right bins and liners, and train staff on what goes where.

A big focus has been on contamination prevention, making sure waste is separated correctly to avoid costly mistakes. Clear signage, regular communication, and hands-on support have gone a long way in helping businesses feel confident about the changes.

Client Story: Greencroft Bottling

Earlier this year, we partnered with Greencroft Bottling, one of the UK’s leading contract wine bottlers based in County Durham, to support their ongoing sustainability efforts. Looking to enhance the waste system already in place, Greencroft Bottling asked us to help make recycling even easier for staff. After visiting the site, we recommended clear, easy-to-follow signage tailored to their operations, helping to reduce contamination, improve recycling rates, and support their environmental goals.

A message from our team

Mark Penny, Commercial Manager, said: “We know how important it is to get the basics right when changes like this come in. That’s why we’ve focused on making sure our customers understood the new requirements well ahead of time, and provided them with the resources and support they needed to hit the ground running.”

Daniel Sugden, Transport Manager, added: “Our drivers and transport team have done a fantastic job adapting to these new collections. It’s been encouraging to see how quickly businesses have taken these changes on board, and we’re now finding a steady rhythm that works for everyone.”

Supporting Your Business Through the Change
If your business is still getting to grips with Simpler Recycling, our team is here to help. From waste audits and tailored bin setups to clear signage and regular staff training, we offer end-to-end support to make compliance as smooth as possible. Whether you’re managing food waste for the first time or just need a clearer recycling system, we’ll work with you to create a solution that fits your site, your staff, and your sustainability goals.