The waste industry is entering a period of significant regulatory change. Over the next 12 months, businesses involved in collecting, transporting, buying, selling, or managing waste will need to prepare for two major reforms: Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) and the new Controllers and Transporters (CaT) regime. Together, these initiatives represent a substantial overhaul of waste movement recording and operator regulation, with the aim of reducing waste crime, improving transparency and creating a more modern, data-driven waste management system.

These changes aim to modernise waste regulation, improve compliance, provide regulators with better quality data, and help tackle waste crime across the UK. Information taken from

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What is Digital Waste Tracking?

Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) is a new system designed to improve how waste information is captured, shared and monitored throughout the waste supply chain. The objective is to provide regulators with faster access to more accurate data, creating a clearer picture of waste movements and treatment routes.

The system was trialled in Belgium to test whether digital watermarks can improve the sorting of flexible food packaging and help increase the availability of recycled material for food-grade applications.

It will introduce additional requirements alongside existing Duty of Care obligations, and digital reporting will sit alongside existing Duty of Care requirements. A trail

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Two Ways to Submit Data

When Digital Waste Tracking is introduced, operators will be able to submit information using one of two methods:

1. Spreadsheet Submission

The spreadsheet route is expected to be the more manual option. The process involves:

• Receiving waste and collecting the associated documentation in the normal way.
• Recording the information for quarterly reporting.
• Entering the required data into the approved spreadsheet template.
• Uploading the spreadsheet to the Digital Waste Tracking service on GOV.UK.
• Validation checks being carried out on the submitted data.
• Data being forwarded to the Digital Waste Tracking platform.
• Regulators receiving the information.
• While suitable for some operators, this approach will require additional administrative effort and may take longer to manage.

2. API Integration

The second option is direct integration through an Application Programming Interface (API). Under this model:

• Waste information is entered directly into the operator's software system.
• Quarterly reporting information is prepared automatically.
• Data is transmitted directly from the software to the Digital Waste Tracking platform.
• Regulators can access the information without additional manual intervention.

For organisations already using waste management software, API integration is likely to provide the most efficient route to compliance. The Environment Agency and DEFRA are encouraging as many businesses as possible to sign up to API to allow any platform issues to be rectified via user feedback.

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A Phased Rollout

Digital Waste Tracking will be introduced in stages.

The initial phase will focus on online and spreadsheet-based submissions, allowing organisations to begin reporting digitally. Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) data will also be included within the system. A service charge will apply to users of the platform.

A second phase will expand the scope considerably and is expected to include:

• Green List waste movements under Article 18 import and export requirements.
• Registered exemptions.
• Waste production reporting.
• Collection activities.
• End-of-waste information.
• Removal of some existing reporting obligations.
• Introduction of regulatory charges connected to the service.

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Reforming the CBD System

Alongside Digital Waste Tracking, DEFRA laid legislation in May 2026 to reform the long-standing Waste Carrier, Broker and Dealer (CBD) registration framework.

The reforms are intended to:

• Create a fairer environment for compliant operators.
• Tackle waste crime, which is estimated to cost the UK economy around £1 billion annually.
• Improve compliance with waste Duty of Care requirements.
• Strengthen regulatory and enforcement powers.

The current CBD system has long been criticised for being outdated, with every operator paying the same fee regardless of activity level or risk profile, while regulators have limited powers to intervene where issues arise.

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Introducing Controllers and Transporters (CaT)

The new Controllers and Transporters (CaT) framework will replace the existing CBD registration system and move regulation into the Environmental Permitting framework.

Under the new model, operators will fall into one of three categories:

Controller

A Controller is an organisation that:

• Organises waste collection and transportation.
• Provides waste descriptions.
• Arranges destinations for waste.
• Organises recovery or disposal on behalf of others.
• Buys or sells waste.

Transporter

A Transporter is responsible for physically moving waste and:

• Acts under the instruction of a Controller.
• Moves waste between locations.
• Does not determine the classification or destination of waste.

Controller-Transporter

Some organisations will undertake both roles and will be regulated accordingly.

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Better Data, Better Enforcement

A key driver behind both Digital Waste Tracking and CaT is the desire to create a more complete and up-to-date view of waste movements.

DEFRA expects faster access to waste data to improve understanding of material flows, helping both DEFRA and the Environment Agency allocate resources more effectively and target regulatory activity where it is needed most.

To support this, DEFRA is also developing a "waste observatory" that will bring together tracking and permit data to strengthen compliance monitoring and improve enforcement activity.

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New Permits and Compliance Requirements

The reforms will introduce new permitting requirements for some operators.

One notable addition is a dedicated tradesperson permit for construction and demolition waste activities. Unlike other operator categories, this permit will not require a technical competence assessment.

Most other operators are expected to require evidence of technical competence as part of the new regime. Compliance activity will include audits and roadside inspections, with enforcement linked directly to Digital Waste Tracking records.

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What Happens Next?

DEFRA is encouraging waste operators to engage with the new system as early as possible and become familiar with Digital Waste Tracking before it becomes mandatory (WT has already started for licenced and permitted sites that receive controlled waste). Early adoption should help businesses understand data requirements and avoid compliance challenges as the new framework develops.

Two consultations covering permits and charging structures are expected during early 2027, with the legislation due to come into force on 22 July 2027 (applying to CaT only). Guidance for the devolved nations is expected to follow.

PackUK and the UK Packaging PRO have set out a revised approach to updating the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM), giving the industry a more active role in shaping future changes.

The UK Packaging PRO will work with stakeholders throughout the packaging value chain to identify areas for improvement and prioritise proposed amendments, drawing on evidence and industry feedback.

PackUK will continue to oversee and publish the methodology, although further responsibilities are expected to pass to the PRO following RAM 2028.

The revised approach responds to feedback from producers and other stakeholders seeking a clearer timetable for changes, alongside more opportunity to assess their implications and prepare for implementation.

Jeremy Blake, Chief Executive Officer at PackUK, said: “This is a valuable opportunity for PackUK and the UK Packaging PRO to work together, combining our expertise and shared purpose to make meaningful improvements shaped by stakeholder feedback from across the packaging value chain.

“By introducing this dedicated route for producers to engage with and contribute to the RAM, we are giving industry a stronger voice in guiding future developments and ensuring a broad range of insight is reflected in how the methodology evolves.”

The UK Packaging PRO will be responsible for collecting, reviewing and ranking proposals from stakeholders under the revised process. Producers will have access to a formal route for submitting change requests, helping ensure practical industry experience and technical knowledge inform the methodology’s development.

For the 2028 update, PackUK and the PRO intend to concentrate on a more limited set of priority issues. These will include areas previously raised by producers, such as guidance relating to take-back schemes.

The aim is to make future revisions more focused and predictable, while retaining the flexibility to respond to new evidence and feedback from stakeholders as they emerge.

Karen Graley, Chief Operating Officer at UK Packaging PRO, added: “We know how important the RAM is to producers, and this process provides a real opportunity to bring industry expertise and practical experience into its future development.

“I’d encourage producers of all sizes to get involved. We want to hear what is working well, where improvements are needed and what the evidence tells us.”

Stakeholders wishing to put forward proposals for RAM 2028 must submit their supporting evidence to the UK Packaging PRO by 31 December 2026.

The PRO will review each submission to establish whether it provides sufficient grounds for a potential change. It may also approach submitters to request further evidence, clarify details or discuss proposals in greater depth.

Submissions that present a strong case for additional investigation will undergo further assessment, with the PRO using the findings to help formulate recommendations for PackUK.

Wastepack and other compliance schemes alike will continue to engage with PackUK and the UK Packaging PRO on behalf of members as the RAM evolves, and encourage producers to participate in consultation and submission opportunities to help shape future methodology updates.

The Environment Agency has extended its Regulatory Position Statement (RPS) 330, delaying certain packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) data collection and reporting requirements until 2028 and 2029.

The updated RPS 330, published on 25 August, extends the regulatory position to cover data for 2026 and 2027.

Under the position, the Environment Agency will not normally take enforcement action where producers fail to collect and report certain data relating to packaging EPR.

This applies to data covering the period from 2024 to 2027.

The Environment Agency said the delay would reduce the regulatory burden associated with data collection and reporting requirements, which do not affect producer disposal fees or recycling obligations for producers, compliance schemes and holding companies.

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RPS 330

The updated RPS delays the introduction of several data collection and reporting requirements.

Self-managed organisational waste data collection is delayed until 1 January 2028, with reporting required on or before 1 October 2028.

Nation of Sale data collection is also delayed until 1 January 2028, with reporting required on or before 1 April 2029.

Meanwhile, data collection for plastic and paper bags is delayed until 1 January 2028, with reporting required on or before 1 April 2029.

The Environment Agency said the reporting requirements remain part of the Packaging Regulations. However, where the conditions are met, producers will not normally face enforcement action for failing to collect or report the specified data.

The RPS does not affect any other legal requirements under the Packaging Regulations.

The Environment Agency will review RPS 330 by 31 December 2028.

UK Packaging PRO has appointed Kerry Easter as its new Chief Executive Officer, with Karen Graley taking on the role of Chief Operating Officer as the producer responsibility organisation prepares to move beyond its initial set-up phase.

The appointments mark the next stage in the development of the UK's packaging extended producer responsibility (pEPR) scheme operator, which represents more than 100 major producers, retailers and trade associations.

UK Packaging PRO has been established with support from a number of industry organisations, including the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) and the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN).

Announcing the appointments, Chair Sebastian Munden said: "Kerry brings exceptional international experience of leading complex supply chains, transforming organisations and embedding sustainability across major consumer businesses.

"Karen brings deep expertise in packaging policy and producer responsibility, alongside the operational knowledge and relationships developed through UK Packaging PRO's establishment and mobilisation.

"Their complementary experience will give the organisation the strategic leadership, continuity and operational focus it needs for its next stage of development."

Jeremy Blake, Chief Executive of PackUK, also welcomed the appointments.

He said: "These appointments are an important step for UK Packaging PRO as it moves from mobilisation into delivery.

"Together, they give UK Packaging PRO the leadership, operational discipline and stakeholder focus needed to help build an effective, efficient and evidence-led packaging EPR system across the UK."

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Kerry Easter Appointed as PRO CEO

Easter joins the organisation after a career spanning supply chains, manufacturing, quality, innovation and business transformation across the food, drinks, beauty, personal care and retail sectors.

Before joining UK Packaging PRO, she was Global Head of Category Supply Chain for Gin, Rum and Vodka at Diageo.

Her previous roles also include senior positions at Unilever and The Estée Lauder Companies, while she was also a co-founder of Rituals.

Easter commented: "I'm delighted to be joining Sebastian, Karen and the team in this exciting growth phase of UK Packaging PRO and wider packaging circularity across the UK.

"My immediate priority will be to engage with the organisation's partners and stakeholders, taking input to build on the foundations already established.

"We will ensure that UK Packaging PRO develops the appropriate strategies, capability and discipline required for a successful next phase."

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Karen Graley to Oversee PRO Operations

As Chief Operating Officer, Graley will be responsible for developing UK Packaging PRO's operational capability, governance and delivery arrangements.

She has been closely involved in the organisation's establishment and mobilisation and brings experience across retail, FMCG, packaging, environmental compliance and producer responsibility. Graley added:

"I am looking forward to building UK Packaging PRO into an organisation that is trusted by producers, respected by its partners and recognised for delivering practical results."

"I look forward to working alongside Kerry, our Board, our growing team, PackUK and partners across the value chain to build the capability, relationships and momentum needed to make packaging EPR work effectively and deliver meaningful, measurable improvements."

The government has confirmed that the introduction of mandatory kerbside collections for plastic films and flexible packaging in England has been postponed until 1 April 2030.

Under the original Simpler Recycling regulations, councils were due to begin collecting these materials from households by 31 March 2027.

However, following ongoing concerns about the availability of processing infrastructure and viable end markets, Defra has delayed the requirement by three years.

The department announced the change last week, with updates to the Simpler Recycling regulations expected to be made during the next parliamentary session.

The postponed requirement covers a range of commonly used flexible plastic packaging, including crisp packets, bread bags and reusable shopping bags.

Gareth Rollings, Chair of the Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee (LARAC), said: "LARAC welcomes the Government's intention to move the mandatory collection date for plastic films and flexibles to 1 April 2030.

"This reflects the concerns that our members have consistently raised about the readiness of the wider system and the financial and operational consequences for local authorities.

"The additional three years must now be used constructively by government and industry to build that infrastructure and provide local authorities with the clarity they need to plan."

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The challenge of flexible packaging

Flexible packaging is often made from multiple polymers – including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), PET and others – combined with inks, adhesives and barrier layers such as aluminium.

These multi-material structures deliver performance benefits but complicate both mechanical and chemical recycling.

At the same time, recycled flexible plastics struggle to compete with virgin polymer produced in large-scale, highly optimised facilities. Recycling plants tend to operate at far smaller scale, with higher costs and less mature technology.

The FlexCollect programme, which concluded in September 2025, found that although collections could be successfully introduced, the UK still lacks enough recycling and reprocessing capacity to deal with the volumes expected once mandatory collections are rolled out nationwide.

New legislation has been laid in Parliament to establish a mandatory Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) system across the UK.

The proposed framework will require all controlled waste to be recorded through a single digital platform, replacing the existing system that still relies heavily on paper documentation.

Originally scheduled for rollout by April 2025, the initiative was delayed due to concerns about whether the sector was adequately prepared.

Mary Creagh, Minister for Nature, commented: “Our Digital Waste Tracking Service will give authorities better, more reliable evidence to go after rogue operators and shut them down. It will also speed paperwork up for legitimate operators and cut red tape at the same time.”

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Digital Waste Tracking to Come in October 2026

Digital Waste Tracking is a government-led programme designed to create a consistent, nationwide method of recording waste movements.

The system will monitor waste from its origin through to its final disposal or treatment point, providing a full audit trail.

According to Defra, this approach will deliver more accurate and timely data. This should enable regulators to detect suspicious patterns more easily and take targeted enforcement action where necessary.

Another key objective is to simplify compliance for legitimate businesses by streamlining how waste data is recorded and reported.

A voluntary beta version of the platform launched on 28 April 2026. Operators of permitted waste sites, along with software developers, are encouraged to participate in testing to help refine the system before it becomes compulsory.

From October 2026, the system will become mandatory for permitted waste-receiving facilities in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Scotland is expected to follow in January 2027.

This initial phase will cover approximately 12,000 sites. Over time, the system is expected to expand to include more than 100,000 operators across the waste sector.

A second phase is scheduled for October 2027. This stage will extend requirements to those involved in arranging and transporting waste, including carriers, brokers, dealers, and exporters.

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Key Requirements Under the New Rules

The legislation sets out several obligations for waste operators.

Facilities authorised to receive waste will need to log specific details for every load they accept. In most cases, this information must be entered into the system no later than the second working day after receipt.

Users of the system will also be required to pay an annual fee, currently set at £26.

Provisions are included to address system outages. If the platform is unavailable, operators must keep manual records and upload the data within seven days once access is restored.

The Environment Agency will have the authority to enforce compliance. Penalties may include fixed fines, variable financial penalties, and formal compliance notices.

Additionally, the agency will maintain a publicly accessible register detailing convictions, civil penalties, and enforcement cost recovery actions.

Executive Director of the Environmental Services Association (ESA) Jacob Hayler added: “Today marks a significant milestone of progress towards implementing Digital Waste Tracking, which is another important weapon in the arsenal needed to fight waste crime.

“Implemented successfully, Digital Waste Tracking should make it easier for waste producers to be sure that they are dealing with legitimate operators, while also providing useful and timely data to regulators to help them crack down on cowboys.”

UK Packaging PRO has officially been appointed by PackUK as the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) for the UK’s packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) programme.

The organisation, which is led by producers, has been established to support a number of responsibilities currently handled by PackUK.

Bringing together over 100 major UK brands, retailers and trade associations, UK Packaging PRO has gained support from key industry bodies such as the Food and Drink Federation and the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment.

According to PackUK, the appointment followed a thorough and competitive selection process designed to ensure the chosen organisation could effectively represent the full scope of the UK packaging sector.

Jeremy Blake, Chief Executive of PackUK, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome UK Packaging PRO as the new Producer Responsibility Organisation.

“This announcement follows a rigorous selection process, as PackUK was committed to choosing the best candidate possible to represent the diverse interests of the packaging industry.”

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Rollout Begins in April 2026

UK Packaging PRO will formally take on its role from 1 April 2026, with responsibilities being phased in over time.

Its duties are expected to include developing fee modulation and recyclability methodologies, overseeing communications and public engagement, and supporting operational delivery.

While UK Packaging PRO will take on delegated responsibilities, PackUK will continue to oversee its activities and ensure accountability to governments across the UK.

Key administrative decisions, including those relating to local authority payments and producer fees, will remain under PackUK’s control.

Compliance schemes will remain essential partners to producers, continuing to support data, reporting, obligation management and day‑to‑day compliance under the pEPR framework.

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Strengthening Industry Involvement in pEPR

The introduction of a PRO builds on the strong representation and practical insight that compliance schemes have long provided to Defra and the regulators, further strengthening relationships between policymakers and industry across the pEPR system.

Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh added: “This government will accelerate the circular economy transition.

“Our packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) scheme will incentivise businesses towards more sustainable packaging choices and improve recycling services in every region.

“The launch of UK Packaging PRO, led by businesses and working closely with PackUK, is a major step forward”

Compliance schemes will continue to play a vital role in supporting producers. At Wastepack, we remain fully committed to championing our members’ needs. We continue to listen closely, engage proactively with industry, and advocate on behalf of producers to help deliver a system that is efficient, fair and effective for every stakeholder. We look forward to working alongside the producer‑led UK Packaging PRO to ensure our members’ insights and practical experience continue to inform the successful delivery of pEPR.

If you have any questions about pEPR or the introduction of a PRO, our team is here to help, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch here.

A new nationwide initiative aimed at cutting waste and boosting resource efficiency across the UK economy has officially been launched.

The programme, known as Circularity in Practice, is a voluntary scheme designed to encourage organisations to rethink how materials are designed, used and managed throughout their lifecycle.

With a focus on reuse, high-quality recycling, remanufacturing and repurposing, the initiative seeks to drive practical change across multiple industries.

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Circularity in Practice Launches Across UK

The launch was attended by King Charles III, whose long-standing interest in environmental issues helped inspire the scheme.

Backed by a wide range of organisations, the initiative has already secured 86 signatories.

Founding members include major firms such as Sir Robert McAlpine, JLL, Suez Recycling and Recovery UK, EMR and Tata Steel UK.

The launch event attracted around 150 businesses, including large corporations and regional SMEs.

Edward McAlpine, Chairman and Executive Partner of Sir Robert McAlpine, commented: “We recognise that the transition from a linear to a circular economy is critical for the future of the built environment.

“By prioritising circular design, resource efficiency, and high-value material reuse, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint while preserving natural resources.”

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Across Construction, Manufacturing and Waste Management

The initiative is structured around four guiding principles: planning, taking action, collaborating with partners, and sharing progress.

It aims to build momentum by encouraging businesses not only to implement circular practices but also to exchange knowledge and demonstrate tangible results.

The members span a wide range of expertise, including design, construction, materials handling and resource management, alongside companies specialising in reuse and repair.

Rather than focusing on a single material stream, Circularity in Practice takes a broad approach. Priority areas include construction materials, lighting, furniture, fixtures and fittings, as well as everyday household goods and appliances.

Many of these items are often discarded despite retaining value, making them ideal candidates for reuse, refurbishment or recycling.

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Previous Circular Economy Story:

'The UK's Circular Economy Taskforce: A New Chapter in Sustainable Business [03.10.25]'

Exchange for Change has released the finalised branding rules for the UK’s upcoming Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), giving drinks manufacturers detailed instructions on how the official logo must appear on eligible containers.

You can view the finalised branding rules via the Exchange for Change website here.

The organisation – formally appointed as the UK Deposit Management Organisation (DMO) – will oversee delivery of the scheme when it begins operating across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland on 1 October 2027.

The newly issued Regulatory Requirements are designed to help producers prepare packaging updates well ahead of that date.

Russell Davies, Chief Executive of Exchange for Change, said: “From October next year, people will see this icon on every in-scope bottle and can across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“The consistency of the DRS logo matters, as it will build recognition and help to drive behaviour change in recycling.”

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Clear and Recognisable Branding

Exchange for Change describes the mark as a straightforward, eye-catching emblem created to make in-scope drinks containers immediately identifiable.

The intention is for the logo to appear consistently not only on packaging, but also at return points and within wider scheme communications.

By standardising the look and feel, the DMO aims to ensure consumers can quickly recognise which containers carry a refundable deposit and understand that they can be returned for repayment.

The logo is intended to act as a quick visual cue that a deposit applies and that the container can be brought back through the scheme.

Davies: “Publishing the approved Regulatory Requirements gives drinks producers the clarity they need to plan artwork cycles and packaging updates with confidence.

“We’re focused on giving industry time, certainty and support as we move towards launch.”

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Technical Standards and Layout Rules

The Regulatory Requirements sets out detailed production criteria governing how the logo must be displayed.

All in-scope containers will be required to carry the DRS mark prominently. The guidance covers both portrait and landscape versions to suit different packaging shapes and sizes.

Specific minimum and maximum dimensions are defined, together with mandatory clear-space rules to preserve visibility and readability.

The document also confirms approved colour treatments and offers technical advice to ensure the branding remains consistent across a range of printing methods and materials.

In addition, the framework explains the formal procedure that would apply should the logo ever need to be amended, withdrawn or replaced in the future.

Producers will still have flexibility in how the DRS logo interacts with existing recycling information on pack. The symbol may sit alongside current recycling labels or, if companies prefer, replace certain elements — provided all regulatory conditions are satisfied.

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View our previous DRS articles below:

'Welsh DRS Moves Ahead With Glass [13.02.26]'

'UK DRS Adopts New Name - Exchange for Change [29.01.26]'

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Image Credit: UK DMO

Wales’ planned Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) has been granted a formal exemption from the UK Internal Market Act, allowing ministers to press ahead with a version of the scheme that accepts glass containers.

The decision enables Wales to roll out its system in October 2027 in parallel with deposit schemes across the rest of the UK, but with a broader material scope.

Officials described the development as a significant step toward reducing litter and supporting circular economy goals.

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Glass Included in Welsh Model

The Welsh Government announced the update alongside the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme for Drinks Containers (Wales) Regulations 2026 to the Senedd.

The rules set out how the programme will operate and who will oversee delivery.

According to ministers, securing the exemption was essential because the Welsh model differs from schemes elsewhere in the UK by covering glass bottles as well as metal and plastic drinks containers.

In a ministerial statement, the government said its approach is designed to reflect Welsh recycling priorities while still maintaining workable arrangements with neighbouring schemes.

When the scheme begins, it will apply to single-use drinks containers made from PET plastic, aluminium, steel and glass. Eligible containers will range in size from 150 millilitres up to 3 litres.

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Transition Period for Glass Containers

A four-year adjustment window will apply to glass packaging. During this phase, glass containers will not need DRS labels and will carry a zero deposit value.

The government said this staged approach is intended to give manufacturers and retailers time to update systems and packaging, while also fitting with longer-term reuse and refill targets.

Wales confirmed in late 2024 that it would step away from the previously coordinated UK DRS process and develop its own version tailored to national policy aims.

Despite the separate path, Wales has continued to work toward the shared UK launch date of 1 October 2027.

Officials had indicated the programme could not proceed if an exemption was not approved.

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View our previous DRS stories here:

Wales Opens Consultation on DRS with Glass Included [25.08.25]

UK DRS Adopts New Name – ‘Exchange for Change’ [29.01.26]