Somerset businesses are being reminded of their new responsibilities as the government brings in new legislation around waste and recycling.
‘Simpler Recycling in England’ is a new set of regulations designed to make recycling easier, by standardising recycling and waste collection systems nationwide.
There are no immediate changes for private householders but businesses (except micro-businesses and other non-household municipal premises) such as schools, hospitals, village halls, and churches, will need to follow the new rules when they take effect in April.
Businesses will need separate collections for glass bottles and jars, as well as metal, including tins, cans, plastic, paper, cardboard and food waste. These items will no longer be accepted when mixed in one general waste bin or bag.
Micro-businesses with fewer than ten employees have until 31 March 2027 to become compliant. At this stage, plastic film will also be included in all recycling collections.
Businesses are being urged to review their current waste collection and disposal practices and work with their waste collection provider to identify where changes are needed. For more details on this visit Somerset Council at their website: somerset.gov.uk