The Waste (Scotland) Regulations were passed by the Scottish Parliament on 9 May 2012.
They represent the most significant development in recycling that Scotland has ever seen and are designed to help us realise the true value of resources we currently throw away.
The new regulations will also play a key role in helping Scotland reach its ambitious target of recycling 70% of all waste by 2025.
The key points outlined in the new regulations are as follows:
- All businesses and organisations to present key recyclable material for collection from 1 January 2014.
- Food waste businesses producing over 50kg of food waste per week to present it for separate collection from 1 January 2014.
- A ban on the use of macerators to discharge food waste into the public sewer from 1 January 2016.
- Local authorities to provide a basic recycling service to all households by 1 January 2014.
- Local authorities to offer a food waste recycling service in non-rural areas from 1 January 2016.
- A ban on material collected for recycling going to landfill or incineration.
- A ban on municipal biodegradable waste going to landfill by 1 January 2025.
The regulations turn attention to the waste produced by businesses. Research has indicated that achieving 70% recycling by 2025 could benefit Scotland's economy overall by £175 million.
A waste officer is available to visit your premises and assess how we can best assist your business and provide a cost-effective solution to meet the new legislative requirements.
