Policy & Regulation
In Scotland, a number of regulations exist which are designed to help individuals, businesses and organisations to capture the value of materials.
Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012
The regulations require all businesses and organisations to separate key materials – plastic, glass, metals, paper and card – for recycling, while most food businesses are also required to separate food waste for collection.
Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024
This landmark legislation sets the foundation for Scotland’s transition to a circular economy. Key provisions include:
- A national circular economy strategy every five years.
- Powers to set circular economy targets.
- Powers to introduce restrictions on the disposal of unsold consumer goods.
- Powers to introduce charges on single-use items.
- Powers to introduce mandatory public reporting by businesses on waste and surplus.
- Expanded enforcement powers for local authorities (e.g., fly-tipping, littering).
Scotland's Circular Economy & Waste Route Map to 2030
This strategic document outlines 11 priority actions grouped under four aims:
- Reduce and Reuse: Product stewardship plans, food waste reporting, construction material reuse hubs.
- Strengthen the Circular Economy: New circular economy targets by 2027.
- Modernise Recycling: Co-design household recycling services, review of commercial recycling requirements and co-design commercial waste provision.
- Decarbonise Disposal: Develop a Residual Waste Plan and the development of a sector-led plan to minimise the carbon impacts of the Energy from Waste Sector.
Single Use Plastic Products (Scotland) Regulations 2021
Scotland has set a new precedent by being the first nation within the UK to ban numerous types of problematic single-use plastics. The regulations mean that market restrictions (effectively a ban) are imposed on problematic single-use plastic items which are most found as marine litter in Europe.
What businesses should do
If your business is based in Scotland and you're ready to embrace circular economy practices, now is a prime time to:
- Audit your waste and surplus.
- Engage with reuse and recycling networks.
- Prepare for mandatory reporting.
- Stay informed on upcoming regulations
- Collaborate with local authorities and waste management contractors.
UK & EU Influences
There are several influences across the UK and EU that are driving change and creating new opportunities for businesses to adopt circular economy practices.
Support and guidance for businesses
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is Scotland’s principal environmental regulator. Businesses must adhere to SEPA’s guidance on waste management and reporting.
Scotland's Improvement Districts (SIDs)
Scotland's Improvement Districts (SIDs) provides national strategic guidance, training and practical support to drive inclusive local economic growth.
Our Route Map to a Circular Future
Sets out an ambitious plan to deliver actions that the government, in collaboration with others, must take to accelerate progress towards a circular economy between now and 2030.