Environmental Legislation

Understand the key recycling laws that apply to UK businesses today

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How environmental legislation could affect UK businesses

If you run a business in the UK, there are laws that may affect the way you use and dispose of packaging, electrical equipment and batteries. These rules are designed to reduce waste, increase recycling and protect the environment.

Many businesses are not aware that these regulations exist, or that they may have responsibilities under them. The good news is, you don’t need to become an expert overnight, our parent company, Valpak, provides compliance services and guidance to help businesses meet their environmental responsibilities.

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Which legislation might apply to you?

Packaging

Businesses that handle packaging , whether that’s manufacturing, importing, or selling goods, may need to follow rules on how packaging is reported and recycled. Find out more about how Packaging Compliance may affect your business.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

If your business sells, imports or manufactures electrical products, you could have responsibilities under WEEE regulations. These cover how old or unwanted items should be collected and recycled. Learn more about how WEEE Compliance may affect your business.

Batteries

From small household batteries to larger industrial ones, there are rules about how they are sold and collected. If your business handles batteries, you may need to comply with these regulations. Read more about how Battery Compliance may affect your business.

Looking beyond the UK

If you trade internationally, other countries have their own environmental rules. Valpak also supports businesses that need help meeting compliance outside the UK.

Why it matters

  • These laws are a legal requirement. Businesses that don’t comply risk fines and damage to their reputation
  • They help protect the environment by making recycling and waste reduction part of everyday business
  • Consumers increasingly expect businesses to act responsibly on sustainability

Next steps

If you think your business might be affected by Packaging, WEEE or Battery regulations, visit Valpak’s website to learn more about Packaging, WEEE and Battery Compliance, and and how it works.