Embracing change: new legislation and the future of food waste management
Simpler Recycling and What It Means for You
As we move towards a more sustainable future, significant changes are on the horizon for waste management in England. Starting March 31, 2025, new legislation ‘Simpler Recycling’ will require businesses with more than 10 employees to separately recycle food waste and dry recyclables from general waste. At GENeco, we are committed to helping our customers navigate these changes and achieve their sustainability goals.
The Importance of Food Waste Separation
Food waste accounts for a substantial portion of general waste, often around 50%. By separating food waste, businesses can significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. This not only helps in cutting down landfill costs but also allows for the conversion of food waste into renewable energy through anaerobic digestion. At GENeco, we process food waste into biogas and biofertilisers, contributing to a circular economy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Preparing for the Future
With the landfill tax set to increase by 20% on April 6, 2025, the cost of disposing of general waste will rise. This makes it even more crucial for businesses to adopt effective waste management practices.
We have seen a huge spike in enquiries and more independent businesses reaching out to discuss their food waste solution in line with the new legislation. At GENeco, we offer tailored solutions to help businesses manage their waste efficiently. Our services include providing the necessary materials for waste separation, tailored collections to suit your business needs, and expert advice on reducing waste. We work closely with our customers to ensure they are well-prepared for the upcoming changes.
Environmental and Social Responsibility
Reducing food waste is not just about compliance; it's about making a positive impact on the environment and society. Many businesses are setting ambitious goals to cut down on food waste. At GENeco, we support our customers in achieving their sustainability targets by offering innovative waste management solutions and promoting best practices.
Success Stories
Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in the success stories of our customers. For instance, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm has been an advocate for our food waste collection “Bio-Bee” services, benefiting from our efficient waste management solutions. Similarly, Harts Bakery have successfully reduced their environmental impact by partnering with us.
Community Engagement and Education
We believe that education and community engagement are key to successful waste management. GENeco actively participates in campaigns and educational programs with local councils including Bristol Council (via Bristol Waste) and South Gloucester Council to raise awareness about the importance of recycling and waste reduction. We host educational site tours for the younger generation to inspire future leaders – showcasing where food waste goes and how it is being used in our circular economy. Additionally, we visit schools to give talks and engage with students about the importance of sustainability and waste management.
Additional Insights
Commercial food waste has a significant economic impact. The UK hospitality industry alone produces 1.1 million tonnes of food waste annually, costing the sector £3.2 billion each year. By implementing food waste reduction programs, businesses can save up to £7,000 per year. Moreover, food waste generates 25 million tonnes of greenhouse gases annually through decomposition. Reducing food waste not only saves money but also significantly decreases the environmental impact.
Conclusion
The new legislation marks a significant step towards better waste management practices in England. At GENeco, we are dedicated to helping our customers adapt to these changes and achieve their sustainability goals. By separating food waste and recycling more effectively, we can reduce our environmental impact and move towards a greener future.
Got questions or ready to tackle your food waste management? Contact us today and let's make a difference together!