Waste management
can guide others, troubleshoot problems, and feed ideas back to management, it creates a truly sustainable care home with environmental practices and safety embedded into the culture.
Step 5: Continuous auditing and feedback loops A ‘set it and forget it’ approach will not work here. Instead, create a rhythm of review and response. Regular audits of bin contamination, fill levels, and placement can highlight where things are working and where you need a reset.
Step 6: Celebrate and reinforce Behavioural science tells us that people repeat rewarded behaviour. Celebrate departments with the cleanest waste streams. Offer small perks, even just a sweet treat in the staff room. In addition, public recognition during team meetings can go a long way. Reinforce the wins: ‘Since we launched this new system, contamination is down 40 per cent’. Share results. Make people feel part of something bigger.
Step 7: Play the long game Keep waste awareness part of regular staff
updates. Include it in new starter inductions. Revisit signage, bin placement, and training regularly to make sure they are still working. Above all, show staff that this is about making their jobs easier, their workplace cleaner and safer, and valuing their efforts.
Turning knowledge into action Simpler Recycling is a driver for transformation in all care homes across England. Similar legislation already exists in Scotland and Wales, and Northern Ireland is likely to implement similar requirements in due course. However, it is important to recognise the differences in legislation across the UK to ensure that care homes operating across multiple regions remain fully compliant with local requirements. By embracing smart systems, practical
changes, and team-wide engagement, homes can build a cleaner, more sustainable future without adding strain to already busy teams. Every small change, from clearer bin signage to empowered waste champions, contributes to a larger impact: reduced costs, safer environments, and a care culture that values sustainability. Now is the time to act. Talk to your waste provider. Audit your current processes.
Mia Fisher
Mia joined Waste Managed in 2024 as marketing communications executive. She is passionate about sustainability and environmental causes and is keen to promote circular economy principles within a variety of industries.
Introduce or run a refresher training programme. But, most importantly, stay compliant in order to avoid disruption or financial penalties. n
October 2025
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