Legal and Guidance Update February 2025

In February, we sent out a full update to our subscribed users, including Primary and Secondary legislation. Of particular interest was the following:

The Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2025

The Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2025 introduce comprehensive measures requiring the segregation of recyclable and compostable materials from general waste streams across all sectors, including residential, commercial, and public entities in England. These regulations mandate specific sorting categories such as paper, plastics, metals, glass, and organics to prevent contamination and improve the quality of recyclable materials. This initiative aims to significantly enhance recycling rates, reduce landfill use, and lower environmental impacts. Additionally, the regulations include guidelines for proper disposal methods and penalties for non-compliance, aiming to ensure widespread adoption and adherence to the new waste management practices.

The Clean Heat Market Mechanism Regulations 2025

The Clean Heat Market Mechanism Regulations 2025 establish a framework to promote and regulate the adoption of low-carbon heating technologies across the UK. These regulations aim to accelerate the transition from traditional fossil fuel-based heating systems to cleaner alternatives like heat pumps, solar thermal, and biomass heating systems. They introduce incentives for both manufacturers and consumers to invest in and adopt these technologies, including subsidies, tax rebates, and performance standards. Additionally, the regulations set out requirements for reporting and compliance to monitor progress and ensure effective implementation. This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions from the heating sector and support the UK’s climate targets.

The Official Controls (Amendment) Regulations 2025

The Official Controls (Amendment) Regulations 2025 update the existing framework governing the monitoring and enforcement of food safety, animal health, and plant health standards. These amendments enhance the scope and effectiveness of official controls conducted by regulatory bodies across the UK. Key changes include increased frequency of inspections, improved data collection methods, and the integration of new technologies for traceability and compliance checks. The regulations also expand training requirements for inspectors to ensure high standards of oversight. The aim is to bolster food safety and biosecurity, protect public health, and maintain confidence in the UK’s agricultural and food sectors.

New legislation published in February 2025 that has been added:

• 1 New Act
• 5 New Regulations and Orders
• 9 New Amendments to existing Regulations and Orders
• 10 New ‘other’ guidance updates