Commercial Waste Information and UK Statistics
Commercial waste, also called business waste or trade waste, is any waste produced from commercial activities such as offices, shops, restaurants, warehouses, and factories. It is classed as controlled waste under UK law and must be collected and disposed of by a licensed waste carrier.
Commercial waste differs from domestic waste in scale and type. It often includes packaging, food waste, office materials, and industrial by-products. Councils do not normally allow businesses to dispose of this waste in household bins or at household recycling centres.
We provide a same day commercial waste collection service across Berkshire. If your business produces waste that your council cannot take, our licensed team can collect it the same day. Call 0118 937 1788 or WhatsApp us now.
Examples of Commercial Waste
- General business refuse such as paper, cardboard, packaging and plastics
- Food waste from cafés, restaurants, pubs and catering businesses
- Confidential waste including shredded paper and office records
- Electronic waste (WEEE) such as computers, printers, monitors and phones
- Bulky commercial items such as office furniture, shelving and pallets
- Construction and demolition waste such as plasterboard, timber and rubble
- Hazardous business waste including solvents, paints and chemicals which require special handling
What Is Not Commercial Waste
- Household waste which is covered under domestic categories
- Clinical or medical waste including sharps, medicines and dressings
- Radioactive waste from labs, hospitals or research facilities
- Large scale agricultural waste which often requires specialist handling
Key Facts About Commercial Waste in the UK
- The UK generates over 37.2 million tonnes of commercial and industrial waste each year ( DEFRA Waste Data )
- More than 85 percent of commercial waste is non hazardous and suitable for recycling or recovery
- Around 40 percent of landfill space in the UK is occupied by business waste ( UK Gov Environmental Permits )
- Businesses have a legal Duty of Care to manage their waste and must keep Waste Transfer Notes for every load
Commercial Waste Explained
What is commercial waste?
Commercial waste is any rubbish produced by a business or organisation. It includes packaging, food waste, office rubbish, WEEE, furniture and construction debris.
When does waste become commercial?
Waste is classed as commercial when it comes from running a business or trade. This includes shops, offices, contractors and even home based businesses.
Why must commercial waste be managed separately?
UK law requires businesses to manage waste using licensed carriers. This ensures safety, reduces landfill and keeps companies compliant with Duty of Care regulations.
How should commercial waste be disposed of?
It must be collected by a licensed carrier with a Waste Transfer Note. Options include scheduled collections, same day removal, recycling and special treatment for hazardous items.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Waste
Who is responsible for commercial waste?
Businesses are legally responsible for their own waste. They must ensure it is collected by a licensed waste carrier such as Berkshire Clearance Services.
Can commercial waste go in household bins?
No. Commercial waste cannot be disposed of in domestic bins or at public recycling centres. Businesses must use licensed services.
Who collects commercial waste in Berkshire?
Some councils offer limited trade waste services, but most businesses use licensed private carriers. Berkshire Clearance Services offers same day business waste collection across Reading and Berkshire with full Duty of Care paperwork.
More Waste Information
Explore our other information pages to understand different waste types:
Commercial Waste Disposal Services
At Berkshire Clearance Services, we provide:
- Scheduled collections for businesses
- On demand same day clearances
- Full paperwork and Duty of Care compliance
- Eco friendly recycling and disposal routes
See our Commercial Waste Disposal Service for Berkshire businesses.