Starting April 2026, every household and business in England will need to follow new waste sorting rules under the government’s “Simpler Recycling” initiative. This overhaul is designed to improve recycling rates by clearly dividing waste into four distinct categories: non-recyclable rubbish, food waste, paper and cardboard, and all other dry recyclables such as plastic, metal, and glass.
These changes come with serious consequences for non-compliance. Households and businesses ignoring the new bin sorting rules risk penalties, including fixed fines starting at £110. For businesses, civil sanctions can escalate to £5,000 or more if they fail to adhere to these regulations.
The timing of this update coincides with a recent 20% rise in landfill tax, which increased from £103.70 to £126.15 per tonne in April 2024. This financial pressure reinforces the importance for organizations, particularly care homes and similar institutions, to prioritize recycling.
Grant Keenan, Managing Director of Keenan Recycling, emphasizes the importance of early preparation. “We urge businesses not to leave compliance to the last minute. Understanding and adopting the new food waste regulations can be complicated, and early engagement helps ensure adequate support and resources,” he says.
The new Simpler Recycling rules apply to any business in England with 10 or more full-time employees, regardless of employee distribution across locations. For example, a company with two sites housing five employees each still falls under the regulations.
Additionally, compliance responsibility isn’t limited to businesses alone. Landlords and facilities management companies that manage waste for these businesses can also face compliance notices and penalties.
To avoid fines and contribute to a greener future, all households and businesses in England must familiarize themselves with the new recycling streams and comply with the updated bin collection guidelines in 2026.