♻️ Understanding Waste Segregation in the UK: A Key to Smarter Recycling

Waste segregation is the process of separating different types of waste at the source to ensure proper disposal, recycling, or treatment. In the UK, this practice is becoming increasingly important due to new regulations aimed at improving recycling rates and reducing environmental harm.

🧃 Why Segregate Waste?

Segregating waste helps:

• Reduce contamination in recycling streams

• Improve recycling efficiency

• Lower landfill use and associated costs

• Comply with legal requirements

🗂️ Common Waste Categories for Segregation

Under the Simpler Recycling Legislation, businesses and councils must separate:

Waste TypeExamplesDisposal MethodFood WasteLeftovers, expired food, peelingsComposting or anaerobic digestionDry RecyclablesPlastic bottles, cans, glass, cartonsRecyclable binPaper/CardboardOffice paper, packaging, newspapersRecyclable binGeneral WasteNon-recyclables, contaminated itemsLandfill or energy recoveryClinical WasteSharps, dressings, swabs (for healthcare)Specialist treatment (e.g. incineration)

🏢 Who Needs to Segregate?

• Businesses with 10+ employees

• Local authorities

• Healthcare providers

• Waste carriers and processors

✅ Best Practices for Waste Segregation

1. Use clearly labelled bins for each waste type.

2. Train staff on what goes where.

3. Avoid contamination (e.g. food in dry recycling).

4. Work with licensed waste carriers who follow segregation protocols.

5. Monitor and audit your waste streams regularly.

🚛 Opportunity for Waste Transport Services

For businesses like Ecowyse, offering:

• Segregated bin supply

• Scheduled pickups for different waste types

• Compliance support

• Staff training