By 31st March 2025, new food waste regulations will be introduced in England. Businesses must adapt by implementing separate food waste storage and collection processes.
This change demands a clear understanding of the types and amounts of waste produced, as well as the proper storage and collection methods to comply with the new legislation.
Key Details of the Legislation
Similar to the new waste regulations in Wales that came into place earlier this year, the new regulations in England will require businesses to segregate their food waste from other types of waste, and make arrangements for a separate food waste collection. However, in cases where businesses do not produce any food waste, it is not required to arrange for its separate collection.
Under England’s new food waste regulations, waste collection authorities must arrange a weekly collection of food waste for recycling or composting from households. Businesses must arrange for their own food waste collections in accordance with the new regulations, but they do not have to occur weekly.
This involves identifying the specific waste materials generated and establishing a systematic collection process. Compliance will ensure environmental benefits and avoid potential fines.
Compliance Requirements
Waste Segregation: Businesses must separate food waste from general waste.
Proper Storage: Businesses must use designated containers for food waste.
Scheduled Collection: Businesses must arrange for regular collection by authorised waste management services.
Impact on Businesses
These regulations will affect businesses of all sizes. Restaurants, cafes, hotels, and food retailers must review their waste management practices.
The initial setup might require an investment in appropriate bins and storage solutions or waste management machines. Additionally, businesses will need to train staff on new procedures.
Benefits of Compliance
Environmental Protection – Separating food waste from general waste reduces landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
Cost Savings – Efficient waste management can lower disposal costs.
Enhanced Reputation – Responsible practices demonstrate corporate responsibility and commitment to sustainability.
Mardon’s Free Waste Audit
Here at Mardon Recycling Machinery, we offer a free waste audit to help businesses comply with waste regulations, including the upcoming changes to food waste.
This audit assesses the current waste management practices of your business and provides recommendations for improvement. This service is invaluable for businesses aiming to transition smoothly to the new requirements, and will help you to implement long-term sustainable practices, as well as avoid any potential fines or penalties.
A waste audit reviews your current methods of handling waste and identifies what improvements can be made.
How the Audit Works
Assessment – We will first review the existing waste management processes of your business. We take different factors into account such as outputs and types of waste generated, the space you have available and your company’s objectives.
Recommendations – Based on our assessment, we will offer tailored advice on compliance strategies and we will be able to advise the most suitable recycling machinery that will help your business gain from your waste materials, whether it be from a reduction in labour costs or an additional revenue stream.
Implementation – Should you choose to invest in new systems to help you comply with the new regulations, we will provide guidance on how to set these up.
Food Waste Management Through Machinery
One solution that can significantly help businesses with their food waste management is Mardon’s RamPack 14 & 32 Yard Portable Compactors, The ideal solution for separating and transporting food waste.
With a compaction rate of 5:1, transport frequency is reduced, reducing carbon emissions, helping sites achieve waste regulations and sustainability goals.
The fully sealed portable compactors can retain large volumes of waste, and offer a clean solution for food and wet waste.
With the option of hydraulic bin lift – compatible with 240 to 1100 Euro Wheelie Bins, site handling is significantly reduced, minimising the risk of manual handling of heavy food waste.
The upcoming food waste regulations in England mark a significant shift towards more sustainable waste management practices. Businesses must act promptly to ensure compliance by the 31st March 2025 deadline. Investing in food waste machinery such as the Portable Compactors can facilitate this transition, offering both environmental and economic benefits.
Prepare now to embrace these changes and contribute to a greener future.
