In England, the Digital Waste Tracking (England) Regulations 2026 came into force on 1 October 2026. The UK is introducing a Digital Waste Tracking system to improve transparency around waste movements and tackle waste crime. Requirements are being phased in, with implications for businesses handling, receiving, transporting or arranging the disposal of waste.
Who is affected and when?
Permitted or licensed waste-receiving sites: mandatory tracking began on 1 October 2026 in England and Wales.
Waste carriers, brokers and dealers: mandatory requirements are planned from October 2027.
Other waste producers: requirements will depend on their activities and the subsequent implementation phases.
What does this mean?
Textile reuse and recycling businesses should assess whether their activities bring them within scope, particularly if they operate waste-receiving sites or are registered as waste carriers, brokers or dealers. Businesses should check the requirements applicable to their specific role and jurisdiction.
Clothing brands and manufacturers that simply produce waste are not automatically required to use the system from October 2026.
