Navigating the UK waste regulations: a guide for commercial businesses in 2026
The UK waste regulations landscape is continuing to evolve, with 2026 marking a significant milestone for commercial businesses. In 2026, we can expect to see much tighter controls on packaging, stricter guidance on liquid food waste, and greater recycling requirements for organisations in Wales – so it’s vital that your business can adapt to these changes.
If you fail to comply with the UK waste regulations, you’re not just risking fines and potential enforcement action. You’re also potentially increasing your operating costs and damaging your business’ reputation. We’ve put together this UK business waste guide to explain the key regulatory changes that are coming into force in 2026, and outline some practical steps you can take to stay compliant and environmentally responsible this year.
Key UK waste regulations affecting businesses in 2026
Packaging reforms and extended producer responsibility (EPR)
Packaging regulations are set to get stricter in 2026, with new extended producer responsibility (EPR) requirements aiming to reduce the overall volume of packaging produced and increase recyclability across supply chains.
This means you will:
- Take greater financial and legal responsibility for what happens to your packaging waste
- Face higher charges for packaging that’s excessive, hard to recycle, or made from mixed materials
- Be required to accurately report the type and volume of packaging your business places on the market
You’ll need to work closely with a dedicated waste contractor to ensure that your packaging waste streams are compliant with these new regulations. Investing in effective cardboard and plastic recycling services can significantly reduce your costs – McCarthy Marland offers a wide range of commercial recycling solutions to help you meet these obligations.
Stricter Environmental Agency guidance for liquid food waste
The Environmental Agency (EA) is tightening controls around liquid food waste in 2026 to help prevent pollution and sewer contamination. If you’re running a restaurant, pub, catering, or food manufacturing company that produces high volumes of liquid waste, you can expect closer monitoring from regulators (including more inspections) and greater scrutiny of waste paperwork.
To comply with the new liquid food waste regulations, you’ll need to:
- Properly segregate your liquid food waste from general waste
- Use compliant storage and containment systems for liquid food waste
- Avoid improper disposal of liquid food waste via drains or sewers
If you fail to follow these EA guidelines, you may risk enforcement action or even prosecution. We provide a variety of compliant liquid food waste management services to help you handle your food waste safely and legally.
Wales’ workplace recycling laws and electrical waste
Businesses operating in Wales will need to comply with enhanced workplace recycling legislation. This includes much stricter separation of waste streams, as well as specific requirements for electrical items (WEEE).
If you fall under this criteria, you’ll need to:
- Separate your electrical equipment waste from general waste
- Clearly label your different recycling streams
- Carry out proper WEEE disposal via licensed providers
These laws signal a clear direction of travel for UK waste regulations. If you fail to adapt to these changes, you could experience operational disruption, compliance breaches, and rising costs. But if you act now, you’ll be better placed to meet future requirements with minimal impact on your operations.
How to achieve commercial waste compliance in 2026
Here are our top tips to help you comply with these new regulations and reduce your costs in 2026:
- Implement segregated waste systems for dry mixed recycling, food waste, glass, liquids, and general waste
- Partner with a licensed waste management provider like McCarthy Marland to ensure your waste is collected and disposed of in a compliant and cost-effective manner
- Schedule regular waste audits to identify any inefficiencies in your recycling processes and reduce contamination
- Train your staff on how to separate waste correctly
- Review all relevant contracts and documentation, including waste transfer notes and duty of care obligations
Stay waste-compliant in 2026 with McCarthy Marland
Navigating the UK waste regulations can be a minefield. But the good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. We support businesses across a wide range of sectors, including retail, hospitality, construction, and industrial work, offering a comprehensive range of compliant and cost-effective commercial waste solutions.
Whether you’re looking to hire a compactor to deal with your excess packaging waste, or you need a dedicated food waste bin for your liquid food waste, our expert team can help you prepare for these changes with confidence. Get in touch today to review your waste strategy and ensure your business is ready for the changes ahead.
FAQs
What are the main UK waste regulation changes in 2026?
The key UK waste regulation changes in 2026 include expanded packaging regulations, stricter Environmental Agency guidance for liquid food waste, and enhanced workplace recycling rules in Wales.
Do small businesses need to comply with the new 2026 UK waste regulations?
Yes – all commercial businesses, regardless of size, must meet the new 2026 UK waste regulations and duty of care requirements. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines or enforcement action.
How will the 2026 packaging regulations affect retail and hospitality businesses?
Retail and hospitality businesses may face higher costs for non-recyclable packaging in 2026. They must ensure that all packaging waste is correctly separated and recycled via licensed waste contractors.
Can a waste audit help to reduce business costs?
Yes, waste audits can help to reduce business costs. They identify any inefficiencies in current recycling processes and help businesses optimise their collections, which often leads to lower waste management costs.