25^th March 2025 · People

Q&A with Jane Armstrong, Regional Sales Manager at Riverdale Recycling

We spoke with Jane to learn more about the new regulations, how businesses can prepare, and how her team can help.

Riverdale Recycling has been a leading provider of recycling, resource recovery, and security shredding for over 30 years. Can you tell us how the company has grown into what it is today?

The origins of our business date back to the late 1800s, when it was established along the banks of the River Tyne. At that time, we primarily supplied UK paper mills with rope, cloths, and paper. While we continue to be deeply involved in the recovered paper sector, the business has since diversified. Today, we also specialise in areas such as plastics and polythene, confidential data destruction, and refuse-derived fuel, offering our customers a comprehensive waste management solution.

Can you tell us a little about your role as Regional Sales Manager?

As Regional Sales Manager, I manage our shredding divisions at both the Durham and Gateshead depots, ensuring that businesses receive secure and compliant document destruction services. In addition to my sales and operational responsibilities, I work as Riverdale Recycling’s GDPR Officer, assisting clients in navigating data protection regulations. I am also an active member of the UKSSA (United Kingdom Secure Shredding Association) and the North East Recycling Forum, which keeps me at the forefront of industry standards. Beyond shredding, I conduct site audits across all waste streams to assist businesses in implementing effective recycling solutions for cardboard, paper, and plastics.

For those unfamiliar with the legislation, can you give us a brief overview of the new Simpler Recycling requirements?

The new Simpler Recycling legislation is designed to standardise waste management practices across England, ensuring a more efficient and consistent approach to recycling. The policy aims to eliminate regional disparities and make recycling clearer for businesses by establishing nationwide rules that all councils must follow. Businesses will be required to separate dry recyclables such as glass, metal, plastic, paper and cardboard, as well as food waste, into specific waste streams. These changes are expected to increase recycling rates, reduce landfill waste, and contribute to a more sustainable waste management system across the country.

Which businesses will be impacted first?

From 31st March 2025, businesses with 10 or more employees will need to comply with the new regulations. Businesses with fewer than 10 employees have two years to prepare, with compliance becoming mandatory from 31st March 2027.

What are the key benefits of Simpler Recycling for businesses?

Simpler Recycling offers several key benefits for businesses. One of the biggest advantages of the scheme is that many UK businesses will achieve zero waste to landfill, meaning all their waste is either recycled, composted, or recovered for energy. This will lower the carbon emissions of many organisations, reducing their environmental impact, and supporting them in meeting their sustainability goals.

Financially, waste segregation will result in significant savings for many businesses by reducing general waste collection costs and avoid rising landfill tax fees. As well as this, compliance with these recycling standards makes it easier for businesses to obtain environmental certifications such as ISO 14001. These credentials demonstrate a business’ commitment to sustainability, something that customers value in today’s eco-conscious market.

What would you say to business owners asking, ‘what are my next steps?’

For business owners wondering about their next steps, the best course of action is to partner with a professional waste management company as soon as possible. Industry experts, such as ourselves, can evaluate current waste disposal processes, recommend changes, and provide the necessary infrastructure to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Businesses that act now can avoid potential disruptions, streamline their recycling practices, and even identify cost-saving opportunities early. This preparation will make the transition to Simpler Recycling much smoother, ensuring businesses stay ahead.

How can Riverdale Recycling support businesses across the UK as they adapt to the new Simpler Recycling requirements?

We provide end-to-end waste management solutions to help businesses comply with Simpler Recycling. Our expert team conducts comprehensive site audits to assess waste streams, assessing them against the scheme’s criteria to ensure businesses have the right systems in place to meet new regulatory requirements. We also provide tailored recycling solutions, including the necessary containers and collection services to efficiently manage various waste streams. Additionally, through our compliance support, we can assist your employees in understanding their obligations under the new scheme, ensuring that businesses remain compliant with legislation.

For businesses looking for guidance or support, contact Riverdale Recycling today on 0191 482 4271 to schedule a consultation.

Back to all articles