Finding the right waste management company is essential for businesses looking to manage their waste efficiently, stay compliant with regulations, and reduce their environmental impact.
In this article, I’ll compare some of the best commercial waste management companies, focusing on their services, pricing, and sustainability efforts.
Whether you’re a small business or a large commercial operation, I’ll provide the information you need to make an informed choice that meets your waste management needs.
So, let’s get started…
- Top 10 Commercial Waste Management Companies
- What is Business/Commercial Waste?
- What are the Different Types of Business/Commercial Waste?
- What is a Commercial Waste Management Service?
- Why Do I Need Commercial Waste Management?
- How to Choose the Right Waste Management Service for Your Business
- Understanding Commercial Waste Regulation and Compliance
- How to Get Started with a Commercial Waste Management Service
- FAQs
Top 10 Commercial Waste Management Companies
Veolia UK
Veolia UK is a leading waste management and resource recovery provider, serving a diverse range of industries with nationwide coverage.
Offering comprehensive waste solutions, Veolia helps businesses reduce their environmental impact through sustainable practices.
With over 85,000 customers, Veolia specialises in creating custom waste management strategies that focus on resource recovery, cost efficiency, and ecological transformation.
Their expertise spans various sectors, ensuring businesses of all sizes can achieve their sustainability goals.
Features
- Services include general waste, recycling, food waste, hazardous waste, secure destruction, battery recycling, and commercial glass recycling.
- Nationwide service across the UK
- Sustainability initiatives include a focus on resource recovery, diverting waste from landfills, and ecological transformation.
- Waste audits available to help improve waste efficiency and recycling.
- Offers customised collection schedules and various bin sizes for different waste types. Bins include 1,100L and 660L sizes for general waste and 1,100L for paper and cardboard.
- Customer support accessible via phone, email, and online during regular business hours.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Veolia UK provides personalised account management services to foster long-term relationships and ensure effective waste management.
- The Customer Hub offers existing customers detailed access to their performance metrics and sustainability data.
- Veolia has a strong focus on open communication and problem-solving with clients, making it easier to address operational challenges quickly
Cons
- No pricing transparency as fees are based on waste type and volume.
- Veolia’s customer support hours are not clearly specified, which may create uncertainties for customers needing urgent assistance.
- The complex range of services and custom solutions may require expert consultation, which could be time-consuming for businesses to navigate
Biffa
Biffa is one of the UK’s leading waste management providers, with over a century of experience in the sector.
The company plays a critical role in driving the circular economy, partnering with businesses to help them reduce waste, increase recycling, and lower carbon emissions.
Biffa’s innovative approach extends beyond waste collection, offering comprehensive sustainability solutions that include surplus redistribution and waste-to-energy initiatives.
Their focus on large-scale, efficient operations and a commitment to sustainability has made them a key player in transforming waste into valuable resources.
Features
- Services include general waste collection, recycling, hazardous waste, food and green waste processing, secure product destruction, energy from waste, construction waste management, and event waste services.
- Nationwide service covering 95% of UK postcodes.
- Focuses on circular economy solutions, achieving 100% landfill diversion for key clients and reducing carbon emissions by 70% since 2002.
- Provides waste audits to improve recycling rates and resource recovery.
- Multiple bin sizes, including 240L, 360L, 660L, and 1100L, with flexible collection schedules.
- 24/7 support through the myBiffa portal for tracking, management, and service inquiries.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Biffa has a proven track record in helping large clients like Greggs achieve 100% landfill diversion.
- Their partnership with WasteAid supports global waste management improvements in developing communities.
- Biffa’s initiatives to reduce carbon emissions by 70% since 2002 showcase their strong commitment to sustainability.
Cons
- No transparency on pricing prior to quotes.
- Given the wide range of services offered, some businesses may need consultations to identify the most appropriate solutions for their needs.
Business Waste
Business Waste UK is a nationwide waste management provider offering a wide array of services tailored to businesses of all sizes.
With an emphasis on sustainability, they provide waste collection alongside specialised options for industries such as healthcare and retail.
Known for their environmental commitment, they ensure that as much waste as possible is recycled or converted into energy.
Their services are complemented by free bins for businesses and the ability to manage waste online.
Features
- Services include general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, clinical waste, glass recycling, sanitary waste, and confidential waste disposal.
- Nationwide service across all UK regions.
- Remains sustainable through its zero-landfill policy, ensuring maximum recycling and waste-to-energy conversion.
- Offers waste audits to optimise recycling rates and improve waste management efficiency.
- Free bins provided in sizes 240L, 660L, and 1100L, with collection schedules based on waste type.
- Customer support available Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, via phone and email.
- Offers an online platform for tracking collections and managing waste.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provides fast, free quotes within an hour.
- Simple processes for organising waste collection and bin delivery.
- Offers transparent online resources and guidance for various waste types.
Cons
- No clear pricing structure publicly available.
- Additional consultation may be needed for legal compliance.
- Customer support is only available during standard business hours.
Simply Waste Solutions
Simply Waste Solutions is a progressive waste management company in the UK, focusing on customer services and sustainability.
They commit to helping businesses reduce operational costs and recycle more efficiently, and offer a variety of services that cater to the unique waste needs of different industries.
Simply Waste Solutions uses an extensive fleet and modern equipment to ensure reliable waste collections, while also working to identify potential cost-saving opportunities for their clients.
Features
- Services include general waste, dry mixed recycling, glass waste, food waste, coffee cup recycling, skip hire, and waste compactors.
- Primarily serves Greater London, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and surrounding areas.
- Committed to reducing waste sent to landfills by focusing on recycling and waste-to-energy solutions.
- Provides waste audits to improve management efficiency and recycling practices.
- Gives the option of multiple bin sizes (240L, 360L, 660L, and 1100L) to accommodate various waste volumes.
- Customer support available via phone or email from Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provides a customer-friendly approach with flexible waste management solutions.
- Offers cost-saving opportunities through tailored waste strategies.
- Actively engages in sustainability efforts to reduce environmental impact.
Cons
- Service area primarily limited to Greater London and nearby regions.
- Limited availability for customer support outside standard business hours.
- Pricing information is not publicly available and requires direct inquiries.
Bin Collections
Bin Collections, operated by Trovare Industries Ltd, offers nationwide waste management services for businesses of
all sizes, having served clients since 2021.
As a waste broker, they provide general waste, recycling, hazardous, and food waste collections, with a focus on flexibility and customised service.
Based in Birmingham, they cater to a variety of industries, from small businesses to large enterprises, ensuring timely and reliable waste management solutions across 95% of the UK.
Features
- Grundon’s services include commercial waste management, general waste, recycling, food waste, glass waste, paper cup recycling, confidential waste, construction & bulky waste, secure destruction, hazardous waste, clinical waste, inhaler recycling, tanker services, industrial services and event waste management.
- Covers the South of England, including Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and surrounding areas.
- Sustainability initiatives include recycling, energy recovery, and a carbon-neutral fleet.
- Includes a waste audit to identify items that might have value or to help reduce your disposal costs.
- Offers a range of collection schedules and container sizes, from daily pickups to less frequent options.
- Dedicated Account Management provided for support.
- Digital tracking for waste and compliance.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong focus on sustainability through recycling and energy recovery.
- Customised waste management solutions tailored to industry needs.
- Digital tracking tools for efficient waste monitoring and compliance.
Cons
- Strong focus on sustainability through recycling and energy recovery.
- No pricing transparency.
- Digital tracking tools for efficient waste monitoring and compliance.
AMA Waste Management
AMA Waste Solutions is a well-established waste management company in the UK. It offers services across a wide range of sectors, from construction to healthcare.
Known for its nationwide coverage, AMA Waste provides tailored waste management solutions to meet diverse industry needs while emphasising sustainability.
They focus on achieving zero waste to landfill, helping businesses to reduce their environmental impact.
Their broad service offerings and extensive expertise make them a reliable partner for organisations seeking efficient and responsible waste management solutions.
Features
- Services include general waste, hazardous waste, clinical waste, site clearance, confidential shredding, WEEE recycling, and skip hire.
- Nationwide service with over 1,000 depots across the UK.
- Committed to achieving zero waste to landfill, promoting recycling and green practices.
- Provides detailed waste reporting and tracking to help businesses improve sustainability.
- Multiple bin sizes (240L, 360L, 660L, and 1100L) and waste collection services, including wheelie bins and compactors.
- Offers personalised support via phone and email, with account management available for businesses.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly flexible service with customisable solutions for complex projects.
- Provides extensive expertise across various sectors such as healthcare, construction, and retail.
- Strong emphasis on customer relationships, providing dedicated account managers to enhance service quality.
Cons
- Limited access to detailed pricing information without requesting quotes.
- No visible focus on innovative technologies like app-based waste management.
- Customer support availability is restricted to standard business hours.
Waste Managed
Waste Managed is a UK-based waste management provider serving over 30,000 customers with more than 12 years of experience in the industry.
They offer a wide range of waste collection and recycling services across various sectors, ensuring efficient and eco-friendly solutions.
With a user-friendly online portal and flexible waste management options, Waste Managed aims to simplify waste disposal for businesses of all sizes.
Their extensive service coverage and dedication to customer service make them a reliable partner for effective waste management.
Features
- Services include general waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste, glass waste, clinical waste, confidential waste, sharps waste, cardboard waste and sanitary waste.
- Provides waste management services across the UK, with the exception of the Scottish Islands and the Isle of Wight.
- Focuses on environmentally friendly waste disposal and recycling practices.
- Conducts waste audits to help improve recycling efficiency.
- Bin sizes include 240L, 360L, 660L, and 1100L, with options for waste sacks and FEL bins.
- Accessible via phone, email, and through their online portal during regular business hours.
- Provides an online portal for tracking waste collections and managing services.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Offers a user-friendly approach to waste management, making it easy for businesses to set up services.
- Provides clear customer service contact options, ensuring clients can reach out through multiple channels.
- Extensive experience serving a wide customer base across diverse industries.
Cons
- Potential delays in waste collection for rural or remote locations.
- No transparency on pricing.
- Lack of flexibility for short-term or one-off waste collection services.
PHS Group
PHS Group offers specialised hygiene waste management services across the UK, supporting sectors like healthcare, hospitality, and retail.
They prioritise discretion in handling washroom and clinical waste, providing secure and reliable collection.
PHS is committed to environmental responsibility through their innovative LifeCycle Strategy, which converts hygiene waste into renewable energy, contributing to a greener economy.
With a long history of expertise, PHS aims to help businesses maintain compliance with waste regulations and hygiene standards while minimising their environmental footprint.
Features
- Services include sanitary bins, nappy disposal, and clinical waste management.
- Covers the entire UK and is expanding into Spain.
- Waste audits available to help optimise waste handling and sustainability.
- phs offers customised collection schedules to minimise disruption.
- Customer support via phone and email during regular business hours.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong sustainability focus through waste-to-energy initiatives.
- Tailored collection services with nationwide coverage.
- Range of services catering to various sectors and businesses.
Cons
- Limited primarily to hygiene-related waste management.
- No transparency on pricing prior to quotes.
- Limited customer support.
B&M Waste Services
B&M Waste Services is a carbon-neutral waste management company that offers tailored recycling-led solutions to businesses across the UK.
Their focus is on reducing waste, increasing recycling rates, and diverting all residual waste from landfills.
With services designed to fit companies of all sizes, B&M provides innovative approaches to managing business waste.
They are industry leaders in environmental responsibility. They use technology to help clients meet sustainability goals while offering a range of waste management services.
Features
- Services include general waste, recycling, secure shredding, hazardous waste, food waste, total waste management, clearances, washroom hygiene, waste equipment, and consumables.
- Nationwide coverage across the UK.
- Offers detailed waste audits to improve recycling and sustainability practices.
- Includes customised collection schedules to fit different business sizes (240L, 360L, 660L, and 1100L) and types.
- Customer support available via phone, email, and through their customer portal, operating at standard business hours.
- Provides advanced tracking tools for waste and recycling management, enabling clients to monitor their waste streams and compliance data digitally.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Full range of services with a focus on recycling and sustainability.
- Bespoke waste management plans tailored to individual business needs.
- Advanced digital tools for waste tracking and management.
Cons
- No pricing transparency outside of quotes.
- May not cater to highly niche or specialised waste requirements.
Wilrose Environmental LTD
Wilrose Environmental is a waste management company known for its cost-effective services and dedication to customer satisfaction.
Wilrose offers solutions catering to both small and large businesses, ensuring a seamless waste management experience.
They pride themselves on their quick and reliable collections, with services designed to minimise disruption for clients.
Based around London, Wilrose stands out for its commitment to clear communication and offering direct local services that eliminate unnecessary costs.
Features
- Services include general waste, mixed recycling, garden waste, food waste, glass recycling, cardboard recycling, compactors and roll-on roll-off containers.
- Primarily services London and surrounding areas such as Surrey, TW, and RH postcodes.
- Diverts 100% of waste from landfills through recycling efforts.
- Offers audits to improve waste disposal and recycling efficiency.
- Provides 240L, 360L, 660L, and 1100L wheelie bins, and larger roll-on/roll-off containers.
- Available via phone and an online form for quick responses, with an aim to respond within an hour for inquiries.
- Offers an online booking system for waste services, making it easy for businesses to schedule and manage their waste collections.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Transparent pricing structure, boasting up to 40% savings for direct service users.
- Known for offering prompt and reliable waste collection services.
- Highly praised for its clear and responsive communication with clients.
Cons
- May have occasional delays in bin replacements during peak periods.
- Limited service coverage compared to larger national waste providers.
- Some customers may find it challenging to secure immediate support outside standard business hours.
What is Business/Commercial Waste?
Business or commercial waste refers to any waste that is produced by businesses, organisations, or industries during their operations.
This includes a wide range of materials such as packaging, food waste, office paper, construction debris, and manufacturing by-products.
Unlike household waste, which comes from private residences, business waste is typically generated in larger volumes and often requires different handling and disposal methods.
Depending on the type of business, this waste can include hazardous materials, which require specialised disposal to avoid environmental damage.
Effective commercial waste management is essential for businesses to comply with regulations, reduce environmental impact, and improve sustainability practices.
What are the Different Types of Business/Commercial Waste?
Business/commercial waste comes in various forms depending on the industry and operational activities of a business. Below is a breakdown of the most common types of waste that businesses generate:
- General waste: Non-recyclable materials such as non-reusable packaging, food wrappers, and other disposable items.
- Recyclable waste: Items that can be processed and reused, including paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, and metals.
- Food waste: Organic waste produced by restaurants, food manufacturers, and retailers, including spoiled or uneaten food.
- Hazardous waste: Waste containing dangerous substances such as chemicals, oils, solvents, and batteries that require special disposal to prevent harm to the environment or health.
- Clinical waste: Waste produced by healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and clinics, including used bandages, sharps, and medical equipment.
- Construction and demolition waste: Debris from construction, renovation, or demolition projects, including wood, concrete, bricks, and metal.
- Electronic waste (e-waste): Discarded electrical devices such as computers, phones, printers, and appliances.
- Packaging waste: Excess product packaging materials, often including plastic, cardboard, and bubble wrap.
- Industrial waste: By-products of manufacturing processes, such as scrap metal, chemicals, and slag.
- Confidential waste: Sensitive documents or materials that need to be securely disposed of to protect privacy and comply with regulations.
What is a Commercial Waste Management Service?
A commercial waste management service is a professional provider that manages the collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of waste generated by businesses and commercial entities.
These services handle various types of waste, including general refuse, recyclables, and hazardous materials, and ensure that businesses comply with environmental regulations and maintain efficient waste management practices.
While offering tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of different industries, commercial waste management services help businesses reduce their environmental impact, improve sustainability efforts, and avoid potential fines associated with improper waste handling.
Why Do I Need Commercial Waste Management?
Handling waste internally can be a difficult task for businesses due to complex regulations, environmental obligations, and logistical challenges.
Without professional assistance, you risk non-compliance with laws like the UK’s duty of care, potentially facing fines, legal actions, and damage to your reputation. While outsourcing waste management introduces costs and may reduce direct control, the benefits often outweigh these concerns.
Professional services bring expertise and specialised resources to safely manage all types of waste, ensure regulatory compliance, and promote sustainable practices that enhance your corporate social responsibility. Concerns about contracts or confidentiality can be mitigated by choosing a reputable provider.
Ultimately, professional waste management makes your life easier, letting you focus on what you do best, running your business.
How to Choose the Right Waste Management Service for Your Business
Selecting the right waste management service is crucial for saving money and adhering to regulatory compliance. Consider these factors:
- Assess Your Waste Types and Volume: Identify the types and amounts of waste your business generates to find a service that can handle your specific needs.
- Verify Compliance and Certifications: Ensure the provider is licensed and insured to handle your waste types and is knowledgeable about relevant waste management laws.
- Evaluate Service Offerings: Choose a company that offers comprehensive services—including collection, recycling, treatment, and disposal—and can tailor solutions to your requirements.
- Consider Environmental Practices: Opt for a provider committed to sustainability, using environmentally friendly methods and holding certifications like ISO 14001.
- Review Reputation and Reliability: Check client testimonials and the company’s track record to ensure they offer reliable and consistent service.
- Compare Costs and Contract Terms: Look for transparent pricing without hidden fees and flexible contracts that suit your business needs.
- Assess Technology and Equipment: Select a provider that uses modern equipment and technology for efficient and safe waste handling.
- Consider Customer Service and Support: Ensure the company offers responsive communication and support, including emergency availability.
By thoughtfully evaluating these factors, you can choose a waste management service that aligns with your operational needs and supports your commitment to environmental responsibility.
Understanding Commercial Waste Regulation and Compliance
Proper commercial waste management is not only environmentally responsible but also a legal requirement for businesses. In the UK, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011 impose a “duty of care” on businesses to handle waste correctly from production to disposal.
Key Legal Obligations:
- Apply the Waste Hierarchy: Prioritise waste prevention, then reuse, recycle, and recover waste before considering disposal.
- Classify and Code Waste Accurately: Use the European Waste Catalogue (EWC) codes to identify the types of waste your business produces, ensuring appropriate handling and disposal.
- Safe Storage and Handling: Store waste securely in suitable containers with clear labelling to prevent leaks, spills, or contamination.
- Use Registered Waste Carriers: Only transfer waste to carriers registered with the Environment Agency. Verify their registration and keep records as proof.
- Complete Waste Transfer Notes: For every waste transfer, complete a Waste Transfer Note detailing the waste type, quantity, and parties involved. Keep these records for at least two years.
- Special Handling for Hazardous Waste: If you produce hazardous waste, use Consignment Notes for transfers, store it separately, and keep records for at least three years.
Consequences of Non-Compliance:
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in substantial fines, legal action, and damage to your business’s reputation. For example, illegal disposal or fly-tipping can lead to unlimited fines and even imprisonment under the Environmental Protection Act.
Staying Compliant:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check updates on waste regulations from official sources like GOV.UK and the Environment Agency.
- Staff Training: Ensure employees know waste handling procedures and legal obligations.
- Use Licensed Waste Management Services: Partnering with professional waste management services can help you navigate regulations and maintain compliance.
Understanding and adhering to commercial waste regulations safeguards your business against legal risks and contributes to environmental sustainability.
How to Get Started with a Commercial Waste Management Service
Getting started with a commercial waste management company involves a few crucial steps:
- Assess Your Waste Needs: Identify the types and amounts of waste your business produces. This includes general waste, recyclables, hazardous materials, or any industry-specific waste.
- Research Providers: Look for reputable waste management companies that are licensed to handle your specific waste types. Check their credentials, experience, and compliance with regulations.
- Request Quotes and Compare Services: Contact multiple companies to get detailed quotes. Compare their services, pricing, environmental practices, and contract terms to find the best fit for your business.
- Check References and Compliance: Read reviews and ask for references to ensure the company is reliable. Verify that they have the necessary licenses and adhere to all relevant laws.
- Finalise the Agreement: Choose the provider that meets your needs and budget. Review the contract carefully before signing, ensuring all services and terms are clearly outlined.
- Implement the Service: Work with the company to set up waste containers, establish collection schedules, and provide your staff with any necessary training.
By following these steps, you can easily partner with a commercial waste management company that ensures compliance, promotes sustainability, and meets your business needs.
FAQs
Can My Business Be Fined If a Third-Party Waste Carrier Disposes of Waste Illegally?
Yes, under the “duty of care” regulations, your business is responsible for ensuring that waste is handled properly even after it leaves your premises. If your waste carrier disposes of waste illegally, your business can be held liable and face fines or legal action. Always verify that your waste carrier is registered and compliant with environmental laws.
How Can My Business Reduce Waste Management Costs?
Reducing waste management costs can be achieved by minimising waste production, implementing recycling programs, and optimizing waste segregation. By reducing the volume of waste that requires disposal and increasing recycling efforts, your business can lower the fees associated with waste collection and processing.
What Training Should My Staff Receive Regarding Waste Management?
Staff should be trained on proper waste segregation, handling procedures for different types of waste (including hazardous materials), and compliance with legal obligations. Training ensures that everyone understands their role in maintaining environmental standards and helps prevent accidental non-compliance.
Are There Government Incentives for Businesses to Manage Waste Sustainably?
Yes, governments often offer incentives such as tax breaks, grants, or rebates to businesses that adopt sustainable waste management practices. These incentives aim to encourage recycling, waste reduction, and the use of environmentally friendly technologies. Check with local authorities or environmental agencies for available programs.
Can We Use Our Household Bins to Dispose of Business Waste?
No, disposing of commercial waste in household bins or public waste receptacles is illegal. Business waste must be managed separately and in accordance with commercial waste regulations. Using residential services can lead to fines and is considered a violation of waste disposal laws.
