Defra Host Webinar Update On Digital Waste Tracking

RECOUP attended Defra’s webinar on Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) on 22 July 2025.

The session provided useful clarification on how the system will operate in its first phase and what users can expect ahead of implementation.

Key updates from the Q&A included:

• API focused delivery. API is digital code that links two pieces of software together. This helps reduce the changes needed for transitioning, and new software for data entry won’t need to be downloaded. Original software can be continued to be used.
• Quarterly returns will still be required for now. These will only be phased out once the system is proven to function effectively.
• Duty of care requirements will remain unchanged in the first phase. While DWT focuses initially on tracking to end destination, documents like waste transfer notes will still be needed.
• Enforcement will follow an education-first approach. The Environment Agency will support users, but continued non-compliance may result in penalties.
• Replacement of WDF. DWT is expected to eventually cover most functions of the WasteDataFlow system, though further work is needed on local authority data needs.
• Onward processing will be included in future phases. The initial focus remains on waste movements to final receiving sites.

As previously shared, Defra plans to roll out the DWT service in stages, and the private beta can be accessed now. The service will go live in April 2026, becoming mandatory from October 2026, for all permitted and licensed waste receiving sites.

Defra will share a full meeting update, including slides, in the next Circular Economy Newsletter.

For a reminder of the full policy and implementation timeline, you can access Defra’s DWT policy paper here.