As England grapples with rising pollution levels and the need for more sustainable practices, the new waste collection system is part of a broader effort to tackle environmental issues. From March 2026, households will be required to separate food waste from rubbish, alongside existing recycling bins. The government hopes this new approach will significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, while encouraging more responsible consumption and waste disposal habits.
New Food Waste Collections to Become Standard
One of the most significant changes under the new policy is the introduction of separate food waste collections for all households in England. According to the government’s Environmental Improvement Plan, starting in March 2026, waste collection authorities must offer weekly collections for food waste, providing households with a dedicated food waste bin. While some local councils already collect food waste, this service is not currently universal, meaning many areas will see a marked change.
Emma Reynolds, the Environment Secretary, emphasised the importance of these changes, stating that “our environment faces real challenges, with pollution in our waterways, air quality that’s too low in many areas, and treasured species in decline.” She stressed that the plan was a step forward in restoring nature and improving sustainability.
The Broader Environmental Improvement Plan
While food waste collection is the headline change, it is part of a much wider effort to tackle environmental issues across England. The Environmental Improvement Plan also sets ambitious targets for nature recovery and pollution reduction. In addition to improving waste management, the plan includes measures to protect biodiversity, with a target of creating 250,000 hectares of new wildlife-rich habitats by 2030.
The plan aims to reduce the prevalence of invasive species, tackle flood risks, and restore peatlands. According to Marian Spain, chief executive of Natural England, the proposed changes will not only benefit the environment but also support farmers in adapting to climate change and improving the quality of air and water. The overall goal is to create a more sustainable, resilient environment for future generations.
Beyond waste management, the government is introducing additional policies, such as the Deposit Return Scheme for drink containers, which will be rolled out in 2027. This scheme will involve charging a deposit on single-use bottles and cans, incentivising people to return them for recycling. These measures, combined with the changes to waste collections, are designed to transition the UK towards a more circular economy, where waste is reused and recycled rather than sent to landfill.
As the government prepares to implement these sweeping changes, it remains to be seen how local authorities will manage the transition. Some councils may be granted a grace period to adopt the new system, but for most, the changes are set to take effect in just a few months.
