Introduction.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the latest developments and news from the recycling and waste management sector.

Our aim is to keep you informed with in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and detailed updates on innovations, policies, and industry trends.

Mandatory Digital Waste Tracking could be delayed.

Digital Waste Tracking (DWT), originally planned for implementation in April 2025, will likely be delayed as Defra pauses waste policies for review. The government is awaiting recommendations from the Circular Economy Taskforce and the Dan Corry review before finalising plans. While key initiatives such as Simpler Recycling and Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging remain on schedule, councils have raised concerns about the lack of preparatory technology trials for DWT, casting doubt on readiness. Defra has acknowledged the review process and assured stakeholders that an update on the timeline and next steps will follow soon.

Find out more here.

West Sussex County Council launched an innovative waste prevention scheme.

West Sussex County Council and Biffa have launched a Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund to support local initiatives to reduce household waste. Community groups, charities, and social enterprises can apply for up to £5,000 in grants to develop innovative projects targeting waste categories like food, furniture, plastics, textiles, and electricals.

Learn more here.

Cambridge goes ahead with Northern Ireland recycling contract.

Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council have confirmed a new agreement to process dry mixed recyclables in Northern Ireland. The councils state the agreement will ensure high recycling quality and cost efficiency while meeting environmental targets and regulatory compliance.

For more details, click here.

NAWDO: ‘Incinerator rules alone will not increase recycling.’

The National Association of Waste Disposal Officers (NAWDO) has welcomed stricter planning conditions for waste incinerators but warns they won’t drive up recycling rates on their own. NAWDO argues that reducing Energy from Waste (EfW) capacity must be paired with producer and retailer responsibility to cut waste at the source. They stress that councils face significant risks if EfW capacity falls short and call for government support to adopt technologies like carbon capture, which remains costly and geographically challenging. Concerns were also raised about over-reliance on landfill until 2035, with NAWDO questioning whether the UK has sufficient EfW infrastructure for self-sufficiency.

You can read NAWDO’s press release here.