Starting in 2026, all non-black, recyclable PET or PP plastic plant pots will be accepted in household kerbside recycling in England.
Defra confirmed this move following a successful long-term advocacy campaign from the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), which will help reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability.
The new Separation of Waste (England) Regulations 2024 for non-household municipal premises will come into force on 31 March 2025, with household collections beginning a year later, on 31 March 2026. Although pots will likely need to be rinsed before recycling, this can be easily integrated into existing recycling routines. Additionally, Defra has stated that Ministers will review recycling policies at the earliest opportunity to provide further certainty and clarity to stakeholders.
Liz Williams, Sustainability Executive at the HTA, emphasised the importance of the explicit inclusion of plant pots:
“The HTA has been asking at every opportunity for non-black, fully recyclable plastic plant pots to be expressly included in kerbside recycling collections, without wording left open to interpretation, which could result in inconsistency across local councils.
“This policy change allows consumers to recycle plant pots at home, marking a substantial win for both the industry and the environment. Plastic is a valuable material and serves an essential purpose in environmental horticulture, but it is crucial that we reuse and recycle it. We will continue to push for clear consumer messaging to ensure no non-black plastic plant pot is left behind.
“Although this policy currently covers England, with a proposed extension to Wales, we hope it will serve as a blueprint for the entire UK, reducing inconsistencies and simplifying recycling for consumers and businesses. We also anticipate alignment with broader waste policies like Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging and the Deposit Return Scheme, further promoting environmental sustainability."
This follows the simpler recycling collections announcement made by the previous government in May.
