Defra delays mandatory plastic film collections until 2030

The requirement, originally due to take effect by 31 March 2027, has been postponed by three years and is now expected to come into force on 1 April 2030. Defra said the extension is intended to avoid placing additional pressures on local authorities, businesses and the wider waste sector during a period of significant change.

The delay applies only to the statutory requirement for local authorities and other waste collectors to collect plastic film for recycling. Businesses, councils and waste operators that already collect or reprocess plastic film are encouraged to continue doing so on a voluntary basis.