Refuse and Recycling Waste
We offer businesses in Thurrock a mixed recycling service that could help to cut your collection costs.
Refuse Waste
We offer businesses in Thurrock a refuse waste collection service which includes the collection of:
- General refuse
- Pet waste
- Plastic bags
- Polystyrene
- Light bulbs, but not fluorescent bulbs
- Sanitary products
- Nappies
Dry Recycling
We also offer a dry recycling service that could help to cut your collection costs.
We collect a wide range of recyclable waste, including:
- Paper and cardboard
- Food and drink tins and cans
- Glass
- Plastic bottles
Food and Garden waste
Separate food and garden waste collections are also available.
We collect:
Food
- plate scrapings
- vegetable peelings
- meat and bones
- cooked and uncooked food
- tea bags and coffee grounds
Garden Waste (excluding soil and rocks)
- Grass cutting
- Hedge trimmings
- Leaves
- Flowers
- Clean straw of hay
- Branches under 10cm in diameter
Simpler Recycling
In November 2024, the Government issued new legislation in respect of Simpler Recycling.
The initiative is a government-led program to improve and standardise recycling practices across England. It mandates that workplaces separate recyclable materials from general waste to increase recycling rates and reduce environmental impact.
Please see the attached Frequently Asked Questions (below) for more information or visit Simpler Recycling in England: policy update - GOV.UK for the full policy details.
Contact us to find out more about our commercial collection services
: 01708 863 120
SIMPLER RECYCLING FAQS
What is the Simpler Recycling initiative?
The Simpler Recycling initiative is a government-led program to improve and standardise recycling practices across England. It mandates that workplaces separate recyclable materials from general waste to increase recycling rates and reduce environmental impact.
What materials need to be separated under the new requirements?
You must separate the following materials:
- Food waste: Weekly collections as a minimum.
- Paper and cardboard: Separate from general waste and other recyclables.
- Other recyclables: Such as plastic, metal, and glass, kept separate from general waste.
Who does this apply to?
The changes apply to all workplaces, with specific compliance deadlines depending on the size of your business:
- Businesses with 10 or more employees: Compliance required by 31 March 2025.
- Businesses with fewer than 10 employees: Compliance required by 31 March 2027.
How will these changes affect my business?
You may need to adjust your trade waste collection arrangements to meet the new requirements. This could involve setting up separate collections for the specified recyclable materials.
What is my responsibility as a business owner?
You need to:
- Review your current trade waste arrangements.
- Notify Thurrock Council if the changes will affect your business and explain how.
What happens after I notify the council?
Once you contact Thurrock Council:
- A member of the Trade Waste Team will visit your premises to assess your waste collection needs.
- They will recommend a compliant collection solution and provide an estimate of future costs compared to your current arrangements.
Will the changes increase my costs?
In many cases, the changes are expected to lead to savings for businesses due to the separation of recyclable materials, which can reduce overall waste collection costs.
How do I notify Thurrock Council about the changes?
You can notify the council via:
- Email: commercialwaste@thurrock.gov.uk
- Phone: 01708 863 120
What support is available for my business?
Thurrock Council’s Trade Waste Team will assist you through the transition, ensuring your business complies with the new legislation smoothly and efficiently.
Where can I find more information?
You can read more about the Simpler Recycling initiative on the government’s website:
www.gov.uk/government/publications/simpler-recycling-in-england-policy-update