It’s been three months since the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) introduced the Simpler Recycling reforms for businesses in England with more than 10 employees. As the first quarter wraps up, it’s the ideal time to assess how implementation is progressing.
At Cromwell Polythene, we understand that while some organisations have made the transition smoothly, others may still be navigating challenges. That’s why we’ve developed a Simpler Recycling Roadmap — to support your compliance journey and make recycling simpler, cleaner, and more effective.
Step 1: Understand the Waste Your Business Produces
Compliance starts with understanding the types and quantities of waste generated on your premises. Segregating waste into appropriate streams — such as general waste, paper/cardboard, plastics, and organics — is essential.
Each area of your business will likely produce different waste types. For example:
- Canteens and kitchens often generate more food and organic waste.
- Offices typically produce more paper and cardboard.
By analysing your waste streams, you can:
- Allocate the right number and size of bins.
- Position receptacles strategically for optimal usage.
- Identify high-volume waste types to prioritise improvements.
Step 2: Choose and Use the Right Waste Bags
Once bins are in place, lining them with appropriate waste sacks or liners is critical. Cromwell Polythene’s waste sacks help improve hygiene, prevent leaks, and support cleaner handling.
More importantly, they also contribute to regulatory compliance:
- Coloured sacks provide visual cues to reduce contamination.
- Compostable liners for food waste are certified to EN13432 standards and decompose in 6–10 weeks in industrial composting facilities.
These features help businesses not only comply with legislation but also demonstrate responsible waste handling.
Step 3: Reduce Contamination with Clear Labelling and Colour-Coding
Contamination can derail even the best recycling efforts. Just one misplaced item can spoil an entire batch of recyclables.
You can reduce this risk by:
- Using colour-coded bags consistently across your site.
- Labelling bins clearly with stickers such as Paper & Card, Food Waste, Plastics, and General Waste.
- Highlighting exclusions like No Tea Bags for food waste bins.
These small actions create a system that encourages correct disposal and reinforces compliant behaviours.
Step 4: Inform and Involve Your Team
Even the best system fails without engagement. Staff awareness is vital to success.
Use multiple channels to communicate:
- Verbal briefings or team meetings
- Internal emails or posters
- Demonstrations or training on proper segregation
The more your team understands the Simpler Recycling requirements, the more effective your waste strategy will become.
Step 5: Monitor and Share Success and Informing Your Staff
Track your progress and celebrate wins. Share recycling data or milestones with your team to maintain momentum.
Seeing results reinforces positive behaviours, encourages consistency, and helps your staff appreciate the environmental impact of their efforts. This might even lead them to adopt similar practices at home, multiplying the effect.
Cromwell Polythene: Helping You Simplify Recycling Compliance
Whether you’re just starting or refining your approach, Cromwell Polythene is here to help. From EN13432-certified compostable liners to guidance on bin placement and contamination prevention, we offer tailored solutions to suit your business needs.
Need advice or waste management supplies?
Get in touch with our team — we’re ready to support your business toward Simpler Recycling success.