Commercial waste collection, sized to what you actually throw away.
Too many bins, the wrong bins, or collections nobody needs — it adds up. Here’s how commercial waste is priced and what the Simpler Recycling rules mean for your workplace.
Simpler Recycling · England
Workplaces now have to separate their waste. When does it apply to you?
Businesses in England must keep dry recycling, food waste and general waste separate. The deadline depends on your size.
This already applies to you.
You should already be separating dry recycling, food waste and general waste for collection. If your collections haven’t changed, check your contract.
SCOTLAND AND WALES HAVE THEIR OWN WORKPLACE RECYCLING RULES.
Waste streams
The bins most businesses need.
General waste
What’s left after recycling. Usually the most expensive stream per lift.
Dry mixed recycling
Paper, card, plastic bottles, tins and cans.
Food waste
Caddies to large bins for kitchens and cafés.
Glass
Essential for pubs, bars and restaurants.
Confidential & WEEE
Shredding, electricals and hazardous waste via licensed specialists.
Your legal duty of care
If your waste is dumped, it can still be your problem.
Businesses have a duty of care for their waste until it’s handed to someone authorised to take it.
- 1
Registered carrier. Check your collector is on the public register of waste carriers.
- 2
Waste transfer notes. Keep them on file, ready for an inspection.
- 3
Correct description. Describe waste accurately so it goes where it should.
Launching soon
Register for our waste service before launch.
Business waste FAQs
Before you book a bin.
Can I use my household council bin for business waste?
No. Waste produced by a business is commercial waste and needs a commercial collection, even if you work from home and produce only a little.
What size bin do I need?
It depends on volume and how often it’s collected. A smaller bin collected more often can cost less than a large one collected weekly.
How are commercial waste collections priced?
Usually per lift (each time a bin is emptied), plus bin rental and sometimes a weight charge. Recycling streams are often cheaper per lift than general waste.
What is Simpler Recycling?
Reforms in England that require workplaces to separate dry recycling, food waste and general waste. Businesses with 10 or more employees have had to comply since 31 March 2025; micro-firms with fewer than 10 employees from 31 March 2027.