Businesses across Bedford Borough are being reminded of new workplace recycling requirements, with all businesses required to separate food waste and dry mixed recycling from general waste by 31 March 2027.
New legislation means businesses and other non-household premises must separate food waste and dry mixed recyclables from general waste.
Businesses with more than 10 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees have been required to do this since 31 March 2025. From 31 March 2027, the requirement will apply to all businesses, including those with fewer than 10 FTE employees.
The changes are designed to increase recycling rates, reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal and help businesses reduce their environmental impact.
Businesses are responsible for complying with the new legal requirements. Those that fail to separate their waste as required could face enforcement action and, in some circumstances, financial penalties. Businesses are therefore encouraged to make sure they have suitable waste and recycling arrangements in place ahead of the relevant deadline. The Environment Agency is responsible for enforcement.
Bedford Borough Council offers a separate food waste, mixed recycling and cardboard collection service to help local businesses meet the new requirements. Food waste can be collected multiple times a week, providing a convenient way for businesses to manage food waste while reducing the amount of general waste they produce.
Councillor Nicky Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Bedford Borough Council, said, “These new requirements are an important step towards increasing recycling and reducing the amount of waste we send for disposal.
“We want to help businesses across Bedford Borough prepare for the changes and make recycling as straightforward as possible. Separating food waste and recycling can help businesses reduce their environmental impact and, by reducing the amount of general waste they produce, potentially reduce their disposal costs too.
“With the requirements coming into force for all businesses in March 2027, I would encourage businesses that are not already separating their waste to start making arrangements now.”
Food waste will be sent to Biogen, where it is turned into renewable energy and a liquid fertiliser for local farms.
For more information about the new workplace recycling requirements, visit the GOV.UK website:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/simpler-recycling-workplace-recycling-in-england
For information about Bedford Borough Council’s business waste and recycling services: www.bedford.gov.uk/BusinessWaste