Schofield Sweeney, a commercial law firm, is warning employers that they could face fines for failing to comply with new waste regulations. According to Craig Burman, head of the Environmental and Regulatory team at Schofield Sweeney, the legislation has not received enough attention and many businesses are unclear about their responsibilities and the consequences of non-compliance.
The regulations, known as ‘Simpler Recycling’, came into force in March of this year and require businesses with ten or more employees to separate all food waste from other recyclables and rubbish before it is collected. This includes excess canteen food, teabags, and packed lunch leftovers.
While the regulations aim to reduce waste and improve recycling practices, many companies are struggling to understand and implement them. Burman explains that concerns about how to keep food waste separate in a busy workplace and the fear of facing penalties for not complying with the regulations are causing anxiety among employers.
Under the Simpler Recycling regulations, card and paper must be separated from glass, plastic, and metal for recycling. If a business cannot separate these materials, they must provide a written assessment explaining why. Additionally, all food waste must be disposed of separately, and packaging, cans, or bottles should be free of any remnants of food or drink. Even general unrecyclable waste, such as used paper towels, must be placed in separate bins.
Burman stresses that the regulations apply to all employers with ten or more employees, including landlords, schools, and community organizations. Even companies with fewer than ten employees will have to comply with the regulations by March 31st, 2027.
To avoid any penalties or compliance notices from the Environment Agency, Burman advises companies to educate themselves and their employees on the new regulations and seek guidance if needed.
Schofield Sweeney is a full-service commercial law firm with offices in Bradford, Leeds, and Huddersfield. Its team of 175 legal professionals specializes in areas such as planning, environmental law, and contentious probate. The firm also offers niche specialties in Islamic finance and energy projects. Schofield Sweeney prides itself on providing top-quality legal services to a diverse clientele, including start-ups, family-run businesses, and international brands.
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