New Recycling Laws for Schools: Your Essential Guide to the 2025 Changes

With new recycling legislation coming into effect on 31st March 2025, schools and educational establishments across England need to prepare for significant changes to waste management. We’re here to help you understand the requirements and find practical solutions that work for your institution. 

Understanding the Changes 

The Environment Act 2021 introduces important new requirements for educational institutions. If your establishment has 10 or more staff members and produces more than 5kg of food waste weekly (about the weight of a bowling ball), you’ll need to implement new waste management practices. Let’s look at what this means for your school, college or university. 

Key Requirements: 

• Separate dry recycling from general waste 

• Implement dedicated food waste collection 

• Ensure proper segregation of materials (glass, metal, plastic, paper and cardboard) 

Which Institutions Need to Comply? 

The legislation applies to all educational establishments, including: 

• Primary and secondary schools 

• Sixth form colleges and universities 

• Private educational institutions 

• Special educational needs schools 

• Adult education centres 

Practical Solutions for Your Institution 

Creating an effective recycling system needn’t be complicated. Here are practical ways to implement the new requirements: 

1. Setting Up Collection Points Establish clearly marked recycling stations throughout your premises. Our Recycling Bin Kit features colour-coded lids for straightforward waste separation, making it simple for both staff and students to use correctly. 
2. Managing Food Waste Dining halls and kitchen areas require efficient waste management solutions. Our Wheeled Bins Recycling Centre provides an ideal solution for busy catering areas, offering easy manoeuvrability and ample capacity. 
3. Classroom Solutions Individual classrooms need practical recycling facilities. Our Coloured Lid Recycling Bins, available in both 25L and 50L sizes, are perfect for classroom environments, enabling easy separation of different materials. 

Making It Work in Practice 

Success comes from creating an intuitive system that everyone can follow easily: 

• Position recycling stations in high-traffic areas 

• Maintain consistent colour-coding throughout your premises 

• Install clear signage explaining proper waste separation 

• Provide training for staff and students 

For larger areas, our Wheeled Bins Recycling Centre 120L Set offers a complete solution, featuring separate bins for different materials, all compliant with BS/EN 840 standards. 

The Wider Benefits 

Implementing effective recycling systems brings numerous advantages: 

• Reduced waste management costs 

• Enhanced sustainability credentials 

• Positive environmental education 

• Support for eco-school initiatives 

• Improved environmental responsibility 

Planning Your Implementation 

With the deadline approaching, now is the ideal time to: 

1. Review your current waste management system 
2. Identify areas requiring new recycling facilities 
3. Plan strategic bin placement 
4. Source appropriate recycling equipment 
5. Develop staff and student guidance 

How We Can Help 

Our education sector specialists understand the particular requirements of schools and colleges. We can assist you in selecting the right combination of recycling solutions for your specific needs, from classroom bins to complete waste management systems. 

You will find our range of Recycling Bins here.

Contact us today to discuss your requirements and ensure your institution is fully prepared for the March 2025 deadline. 

Contact Us

If you’d like to know more about how Paper Plus can provide your school with the supplies and stationery it requires, please get in touch. Call us on 01444 238 050 or pop us an email at sales@paperplusuk.com