Consultation Launched on Revised Code of Practice for Waste Separation in Wales

The Welsh Government has opened a consultation on proposed revisions to the ‘Code of Practice for the Separate Collection of Waste Materials for Recycling’, as required under the Waste Separation Requirements (Wales) Regulations 2023.

The consultation, which runs until 22 October 2025, aims to update the Code to reflect new obligations on local authorities, businesses, and public bodies.

One of the most notable changes is the planned requirement for the separate collection of small waste electrical and electronic equipment (sWEEE) from April 2026. Currently, this duty only applies to unsold items; the proposed amendment would extend the requirement to all sWEEE.

Additional changes include phased-in duties for the separate collection of textiles and plastic film by April 2027, as well as the removal of exemptions for hospitals. These measures are part of Wales’s broader policy to increase recycling rates, improve material quality, and ensure that waste is managed as close to source as possible.

Stakeholders are encouraged to review the proposals and submit feedback before the deadline to help shape the final Code of Practice.

The consultation landing page can be accessed here.