Environment agency confirms new charging approach for simpler recycling
The Environment Agency (EA) has confirmed changes to how it will recover the costs of regulatory work linked to the simpler recycling reforms, following a public consultation.
Under the new approach, the EA will apply a £118 hourly “time and materials” charge where regulatory work is required due to non‑compliance. The charge applies only to businesses and occupiers of relevant non‑domestic premises that fail to meet the recycling requirements.
Why the change?
The updated charging model is designed to ensure that the cost of enforcement falls on non‑compliant businesses, rather than those that meet their obligations. This reflects the polluter pays principle and aligns with how the EA recovers costs for other technical regulatory services.
The hourly rate is based on an assessment of the staff time and activities needed to carry out compliance checks and enforcement work.
Consultation outcome
Feedback on the proposals was mostly positive, with respondents commenting on fairness, customer impact, environmental protection, and the design of the charging scheme. After reviewing all responses, the EA decided to implement the charge as proposed, without changes.
When it takes effect
The revised charges will apply from 3 February 2026. The updated charging scheme has now been published on GOV.UK.
What this means for businesses
- Compliant businesses will not be charged
- Non‑compliance may result in hourly regulatory charges
- Early compliance helps avoid additional costs and regulatory intervention
For businesses, the message is clear: meeting simpler recycling requirements reduces both regulatory risk and cost.
The EA have published and updated their documents regarding charges (these charges started from 3/2/2026) Read the full details here: