Recycling, Waste and Resource Management. An updated IWFM Good Practice Guide

News

IWFM is pleased to launch a revised edition of its Good Practice Guide, Recycling, Waste and Resource Management, available from Wednesday 22 April. This updated guide reflects continued changes in legislation, policy and professional practice, providing workplace and facilities management professionals with clear, current and practical guidance.

Since the previous edition, the context for recycling and waste management has evolved rapidly. New regulatory requirements, increased focus on ESG performance, growing expectations around social value, and the need for better data to support carbon reporting have all raised the stakes for FMs. This revised guide responds directly to those changes, ensuring professionals have access to up-to-date, authoritative advice.

According to IWFM’s Head of Policy and Insight, Andrew Gladstone-Heighton, ‘Recycling and waste management are no longer back‑of‑house operational issues. They’re a visible part of ESG performance, corporate responsibility and risk. Our updated guide gives facilities managers the practical tools they need to make informed decisions, demonstrate value and respond confidently to changing expectations.’

Written by sustainability specialists Nicki Chennells and Kirsteen Harrison of Not Sustainable, and peer-reviewed by experts from across the sector, the guide combines strategic insight with practical application. It’s designed for FMs at all levels – from those shaping organisational strategy to those managing day-to-day operations where recycling and waste form part of a wider role.

The guide places waste management firmly within the wider responsible business agenda. It explains how everyday decisions contribute to business resilience, climate action and organisational reputation, and why poor practice now carries greater legal, financial and reputational risk than ever before. It also highlights the opportunities for FMs to demonstrate value by reducing carbon, managing resources more efficiently and supporting social outcomes.

Key updates include expanded guidance on applying the waste hierarchy and circular economy principles, measuring and managing carbon emissions, and responding to new and upcoming UK legislation. These include Simpler Recycling requirements, changes to duty of care, digital waste tracking and the continued shift towards extended producer responsibility. The guide also reflects the growing importance of data quality and auditability in supporting sustainability reporting and net zero targets.

Practical sections support FMs in reviewing and improving current arrangements. Topics include engaging and managing waste and resource management partners, choosing appropriate containers and collection frequencies, improving health and safety, communicating effectively with building users, and carrying out audits to ensure compliance and continuous improvement. The revised edition also addresses hybrid and home working, recognising the changing nature of work and its implications for waste responsibilities.

Throughout, the guide reinforces that recycling, waste and resource management are no longer isolated operational concerns. They are a visible expression of organisational values and a key area where FMs can influence positive environmental and social outcomes.

The Recycling, Waste and Resource Management Good Practice Guide is free to download for IWFM members. Non-members can purchase the guide for £19.99.

Download the revised guide now and ensure your approach reflects current best practice.