The Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI) has released this statement to provide clarify on recent changes to workplace recycling requirements in England, following enquiries from businesses uncertain about how to comply, particularly regarding the separation of paper and card.
As of 31 March 2025, all businesses, charities, and public sector organisations in England are legally required to separate their recycling. Micro-firms with fewer than 10 employees have until 31 March 2027 to comply.
One key point of confusion has been around paper and card, and CPI would like to make the position clear:
Workplaces must collect paper and card separately from plastic, metal, and glass. The only exemption is when their waste collector has approved co-collection following an assessment, which must demonstrate that separate collection is not technically or economically practicable, or that it offers no significant environmental benefit. However, businesses should not assume co-collection is permitted and must confirm this directly with their waste collector. This rule is not optional, and it is designed to improve the quality of recyclable materials and reduce contamination.
Dimitra Rappou, CPI’s Executive Director – Sustainable Products, said: “These new requirements are a big step towards improving the quality of paper and card collected for recycling. However, we know that many businesses are unclear about what is expected of them. This clarification aims to help businesses understand their obligations. High-quality paper recycling starts with proper separation and businesses must take the right steps now.”
ENDS
For further information contact Elisse Hare ([email protected]).
Notes to Editors
CPI is the leading trade association representing the UK’s Paper-based Industries, comprising paper and board manufacturers and converters, corrugated packaging producers, makers of soft tissue papers, and collectors of paper for recycling.
CPI represents an industry with an aggregate annual turnover of £11.5 billion, with 56,000 direct and a further 59,000 indirect employees.