Simpler Recycling: Toolkit and Assets

From 2026, all households in England will be able to recycle the same materials. The Government’s Simpler Recycling reforms aim to make recycling easier, reduce confusion and increase recycling rates.

What you’ll be able to recycle

• Dry recycling: plastics (bottles, pots, tubs, trays, tubes), glass bottles and jars, metal cans, tins, cartons/Tetra Pak and foil, newspapers, magazines, cardboard and packaging
• Food waste: all household food waste, from peelings to plate scrapings
• Garden waste: local authorities will decide whether to offer a collection service, where provided charges may apply
• From 2027: plastic film and flexible plastics such as wrappers and carrier bags

This toolkit supports local authorities with editable assets to explain service changes clearly and consistently, helping residents recycle correctly and with confidence. It includes key considerations and top tips to help ensure communications are delivered effectively.

What’s included

Explore below, editable templates for:

• Adding new materials to existing services
• Launching a new dry recycling service
• Promoting garden waste collections
• Introducing food waste collections
• Adding plastic bags and wrapping collections
• Making changes to residual waste collection.

Supporting information packs are also provided which include: web page copy, frequently asked questions, social media posts, a press release and a council newsletter/blog.

More information

• Refer to the Government’s Simpler Recycling guidance for advice on written assessments and collection requirements under the Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2025.
• Use WRAP’s eTEEP Tool to help complete your written assessment and ensure compliance with Simpler Recycling requirements.
• Refer to the WRAP LA Portal for information and data on local authority recycling and waste schemes in the UK.