As we move towards 2026, we are seeing major shifts in both regulation and on-the-ground operations across the waste-management sector. With new obligations becoming embedded and scrutiny increasing around data accuracy and compliance, businesses are facing a crucial year for strengthening their waste strategies and ensuring they remain fully aligned with evolving requirements.

Here are some of the key changes to look out for:

1. Simpler Recycling – one year on, and moving into wider rollout

2026 marks one year since Simpler Recycling legislation came into force for larger workplaces. The shift now is from new policy to day-to-day operational reality.

Many of our customers took early action in 2025, adopting best practice, investing in staff training and embedding compliant segregation long before deadlines. However, there remain businesses that have yet to fully align their on-site systems with the new requirements.

Wider rollout to households is expected in 2026, and microbusinesses will come under the rules in 2027, meaning preparation now is essential.

“Early adopters are already seeing the benefits – cleaner recycling streams, reduced contamination and smoother collections. But there’s still a gap in some workplaces between what the policy says and what actually happens on the shop floor. Standardised bins, clear signage and regular site audits are essential to closing that gap.” – Dean Willshee, Managing Director

2. Landfill tax stability, stronger enforcement and the brownfield opportunity

The Government’s recent Budget confirmed the continuation of the two-rate landfill tax structure, providing much-needed cost certainty for commercial, construction and demolition waste producers.

However, accompanying measures to tighten rate-gap management indicate strengthened scrutiny of waste classification, particularly for soils and construction waste. Businesses can expect increased inspections and more rigorous enforcement.

Transparent classification, compliant segregation, reliable soil testing and clear disposal documentation will be essential safeguards for organisations handling high-risk materials.

The Budget also highlighted new DEFRA funding to unlock brownfield land for development. This is expected to accelerate demand for partners capable of managing soil classification, compliant movement of materials and transparent resource recovery.

“We welcome clarity on landfill tax – it allows our customers to plan with confidence. But with that stability comes stricter enforcement. For construction and development projects, the margin for error is shrinking. Developers need partners who can remove uncertainty through accurate classification and transparent reporting.”

3. WEEE, batteries and vape waste – a growing compliance and safety priority

Rising volumes of WEEE, batteries and disposable vapes continue to present a significant compliance and fire-safety challenge, particularly due to the prevalence of lithium-ion batteries.

Retailers and workplaces are facing increasing expectations around correct segregation, secure storage and staff training. With duty stamps being introduced for vapes, enforcement activity is set to intensify.

Audit-ready documentation and safe collection systems are no longer optional but critical to preventing fires, avoiding penalties and protecting other waste streams from contamination.

“Battery and vape waste is one of the fastest-growing risks we face. With lithium-ion battery-related fires on the rise, proper segregation isn’t just good practice, it can save lives. Businesses need clear guidance and the assurance that their waste is handled safely at every stage. Partnering with a fully licensed and experienced provider like Willshee’s gives complete peace of mind, ensuring compliance, safety, and responsible disposal every step of the way.”

4. Higher expectations for waste-management data

Inflation-linked increases to the Plastic Packaging Tax, alongside a 2026 consultation on recycled-content certification, are driving a renewed focus on data integrity, traceability and recyclate quality.

Extended Producer Responsibility legislation is also placing greater accountability on producers, who must increasingly evidence the end-of-life outcomes for the materials they place on the market.

While recycled-content data is under scrutiny, we expect demand for waste-management data to grow rapidly in parallel. Granular information will help businesses demonstrate compliance, understand performance and meet tougher reporting standards.

We provide customers with detailed impact data via our customer portal, covering tonnage, zero-waste-to-landfill performance and waste-stream breakdowns.

“Data is quickly becoming just as important as the collection services themselves. Businesses need clear, reliable information to meet today’s compliance demands. Our focus is on giving customers the visibility they need to make informed decisions and prove their performance.”

Preparing for a pivotal year

With tighter regulations, heightened safety considerations and growing expectations around reporting, 2026 is shaping up to be a decisive year for organisations looking to future-proof their waste and recycling practices.

We’ll continue to work closely with customers to provide clear guidance, transparent data and compliant waste-management solutions as these changes take effect.

For further guidance around how to tackle your waste management in 2026, contact our sales team today.

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