Dear Headteacher,

Re: Compliance with New Statutory Waste Regulations (Environment Act 2021 / Simpler Recycling)

I am writing in my capacity as NEU Environment Officer to support our shared commitment to environmental sustainability, and to ensure school communities are fully prepared for the statutory waste separation requirements introduced under Defra’s Simpler Recycling policy, which came into force 31 March 2025.

As you will be aware, all schools in England will be legally required to separate waste into specific streams—including dry mixed recyclables and food waste—and to ensure compliant disposal arrangements. This forms part of the UK government’s wider waste reform strategy under the Environment Act 2021.

To help ensure compliance, the NEU would be grateful if you could consider the following questions, and provide clarity on any actions planned or already taken:

Governance and Responsibility

• Who is the named individual responsible for overseeing compliance with the new waste regulations?
• Has the governing body or trust board been formally briefed on this statutory duty?
• How is progress being reported or monitored at senior leadership level?

Current Readiness

• Has the school conducted an audit of current waste management practices?
• Are all existing waste contracts aligned with the new legal requirements for separate collection?
• Do your waste providers offer separate collections for:
  • Dry recyclables (glass, paper/card, metal, plastics)?
  • Food waste (at least weekly)?

Infrastructure

• Are clearly labelled bins for all required waste streams in place throughout the school sites?
• Has signage and communication been updated to support correct use by staff and pupils?

Training and Engagement

• What training has been delivered to staff regarding the new waste duties?
• How are pupils supported to partake in proper waste separation?
• Have cleaners, contractors, and kitchen staff been briefed on their responsibilities?

Monitoring and Compliance

• What systems are in place to ensure compliance (e.g. audits, spot checks, feedback)?
• How will contamination or non-compliance be addressed?

Finance and Planning

• Has the cost of any necessary changes been assessed?
• Are there plans to access support from the local authority or waste providers to assist with implementation?

We hope that by working together we can ensure all our schools not only meets its legal obligations but also models best practice in sustainability and environmental education.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if the NEU can offer support or coordinate with other staff to promote awareness and engagement. The NEU will also be happy to collaborate on student-led environmental initiatives that could support the rollout.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Yours sincerely,

Justin Wynne

NEU Environment Officer - Hastings District