The Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012

The Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012 transpose Articles 11 and 22 of the rWFD and deals with the practical implementation of provisions such as the separate collection of recyclable materials and processing and management of waste and the promotion of ‘high quality’ recycling. Specific measures introduced by the regulations include:

• A requirement on all waste holders to take reasonable steps to promote high quality recycling.
• A requirement for businesses to take reasonable steps to present dry recyclables (metals, plastics, paper, card and glass) (2014) and food waste for collection (2014 and 2016 for businesses producing between 5kg and 50kg of food waste).
• A requirement on local authorities to provide householders with a collection service for dry recyclables (2014) and food waste (2016).
• A ban on materials collected separately for recycling going to landfill or incineration (2014).
• A ban on biodegradable municipal waste going to landfill, thus helping to substantially reduce harmful emissions of methane (2021).

Please note, Orkney is currently exempt with respect of food waste.

For more information about the Waste Scotland Regulations please visit the links in the 'Related Downloads' section of this page.