Synopsis
This policy paper provides further information on the forthcoming introduction of mandatory digital waste tracking across the UK.
The system is due to be launched across two phases: firstly in 2026 for ‘waste receivers’ (permitted or licenced waste management facilities) before a second phase in April 2027, at the earliest, for producers of waste and waste carriers, brokers and dealers.
Summary
The Defra: digital waste tracking policy paper provides further information on the forthcoming introduction of mandatory digital waste tracking across the UK. Defra has confirmed that the system will be introduced across two phases, with the first phase concerning ‘waste receivers’ (permitted or licenced waste management facilities) only.
Legislation applying requirements for phase one is expected in April 2026.
Phase one, 2026: Waste receivers
The mandatory digital waste tracking system will operate through an online portal with application programming interface (API) functionality, allowing waste receivers to connect any existing waste databases to the system.
A private beta of the system will operate between Autumn 2025 and April 2026, with a public beta in April 2026. Waste receivers are expected to put suitable systems in place between April and October 2026 to interface with the system. Waste receivers will need to input data on waste received to the waste tracking system from October 2026, whether directly on the portal or via the API.
An anticipated service charge of around £20 a year will be applied to waste receivers.
As the requirements under phase one will not apply to waste producers, carriers, brokers or dealers, waste transfer notes, hazardous waste consignment notes and consignee returns will remain in use.
Requirements in phase one are not expected to apply to waste exemption holders, due to the diversity and complexity of their operations. Planned reforms to waste exemptions are expected to include enhanced data recording processes, preparing for the inclusion of exemptions in digital tracking.
Additionally, phase one requirements will not be mandatory for household waste recycling centre operators.
Phase two, April 2027: Waste producers, carriers, brokers and dealers
Defra has confirmed that waste tracking requirements are not expected to apply to waste producers, carriers, brokers or dealers until April 2027 at the earliest.
Phase two would include the removal and replacement of waste transfer note, hazardous waste consignment note and consignee return requirements, which will require amendments to UK legislation. These documents would be replaced through the use of the waste tracking portal, with unique waste tracking IDs for each waste movement. Data on waste are intended to be as close to real time as possible.
Producers would not enter waste tracking information into the system, with carriers fulfilling this role.
Enforcement
Defra has stated that the waste tracking system will be enforced via warnings, civil sanctions and prosecutions.
Greenspace subscribers receive full monthly updates summarising new and forthcoming legislation applicable to their organisation.
To receive these free updates by email, please subscribe to our mailing list. For a free trial and demonstration of Greenspace or a quotation, please contact us by email.
