Recycling requirements have changed, and with further deadlines approaching in 2027, now is a good time to ensure waste arrangements are fit for the future.

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Businesses across Pulborough are being urged to check their waste arrangements as major changes to recycling laws continue to be rolled out across England.

The changes form part of the Government's "Simpler Recycling" reforms, which aim to increase recycling rates, reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal and create a more consistent approach to waste collection nationwide. From 31 March 2025, most workplaces with 10 or more full-time equivalent employees have been legally required to separate recyclable materials, food waste and general waste for collection. Smaller businesses with fewer than 10 employees have until 31 March 2027 to comply.

At the same time, Horsham District Council is encouraging local firms to make use of its Commercial Waste Service, which has been expanded to help businesses meet the new requirements.

What Has Changed?

Under the new regulations, businesses, charities and public sector organisations must separate:

• Dry recyclable materials such as paper, card, glass, plastics and metals
• Food waste
• Residual (non-recyclable) waste

By 31 March 2027, the collection of recyclable plastic films will also become a requirement.

The rules apply to a wide range of workplaces including offices, shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants, schools, healthcare facilities, warehouses and industrial premises.

How Horsham District Council Can Help

Horsham District Council's Commercial Waste Service offers collections across the district and is designed to help businesses comply with the new legislation while managing costs effectively. The service provides:

• Tailored collection schedules
• General waste, recycling and food waste collections
• One-off collections and event waste services
• A range of containers and bin options
• Waste transfer note administration
• Advice on legal compliance and recycling requirements

The council says its service is suitable for organisations of all sizes, from home-based businesses and start-ups through to schools, restaurants and larger commercial premises.

Benefits for Local Businesses

For many businesses, the changes present an opportunity rather than simply an additional obligation.

Government guidance suggests that improved recycling can reduce the amount of waste requiring disposal, while helping businesses demonstrate their environmental credentials to customers and stakeholders. The reforms are also designed to create a more circular economy, keeping valuable materials in use for longer and reducing carbon emissions.

Horsham District Council highlights that waste disposal can account for up to 4-5% of a business's turnover and says choosing the right collection service can help businesses avoid missed collections, unsuitable equipment and compliance issues.

Food waste collections also offer environmental benefits. Food waste collected through the council's service is sent for anaerobic digestion, where it is converted into renewable energy and biofertiliser used in agriculture.

What Businesses Should Do Now

Businesses that have not yet reviewed their waste arrangements should check whether they are meeting the legal requirements to separate food waste, recycling and general waste.

Smaller businesses with fewer than 10 employees should be aware that their exemption ends on 31 March 2027, meaning preparations should begin well before that deadline.

Further information about Horsham District Council's Commercial Waste Service, including personalised quotations, can be found on the council's website:

Horsham District Council Commercial Waste Service

Businesses can also contact the Commercial Waste team by email at commercialwaste@horsham.gov.uk or by telephone on 01403 739391.