From 31 March 2026, waste collectors must collect four types of waste separately
Two new bins being sent to UK households ahead of rule change for all(Image: )
Two new bins are being sent to all UK households ahead of a major waste shake-up from March 31, 2026. From 31 March 2026, waste collectors must collect four types of waste separately, under a Labour Party government policy change.
It includes: food and garden waste AND paper and card AND all other dry recyclable materials (glass, metal and plastic, including cartons) AND residual waste (non-recyclable waste that is sent for energy recovery or to landfill).
All these types of waste must be collected from all households (including flats). Food waste must be collected weekly and free of charge.
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The government says TWO bins should be provided to each household for food waste. These include a small bin suitable for the kitchen (often called a caddy) and a larger bin for outside (for collection), it says.
The government also warns: “There is no requirement for caddy liners to be provided to households or for them to be used.
“Where liners are used, you should promote the use of liners that have the lowest carbon and wider environmental impacts.”
The changes are part of the new Simpler Recycling initiative from the Labour government, which is kick started this coming spring.
Simpler Recycling legislation aims to standardise recycling across England. It introduces a set range of materials that all workplaces need to recycle.
You’ll need separate bins for refuse, mixed recycling, and food waste.
You’ll also need to keep paper and card separate from mixed recycling unless your collector has completed an assessment to justify mixing them.
All food waste must be recycled, except liquids. If you only produce small quantities of food waste, you may want to team up with a neighbouring business or household.
You could then arrange to share a collection service for food recycling, or contract a service that is less frequent than weekly.