Big changes are coming to how businesses manage and record their waste.
The UK Government is introducing mandatory Digital Waste Tracking to replace the current paper-based system of waste transfer notes and consignment notes. The new system will make it compulsory for businesses to record all waste movements digitally.
At Sigma Solutions, we are helping businesses prepare for this change now.
What is Digital Waste Tracking?
Digital Waste Tracking is a new UK-wide digital service that will track waste from the point it is produced to its final disposal or recovery.
Currently, most businesses use paper Waste Transfer Notes (WTNs) to record waste collections. Under the new system, these paper notes will be replaced by a digital record submitted through a central system.
Every waste collection, transfer and disposal will need to be recorded digitally, creating a full audit trail for all business waste.
Why is it Being Introduced?
The new system is being introduced by DEFRA and the devolved governments to:
- Reduce waste crime and illegal dumping
- Improve transparency and traceability of waste
- Remove reliance on paper-based records
- Provide accurate data on UK waste and recycling rates
- Help businesses demonstrate Duty of Care compliance
The goal is to make waste management more efficient, more transparent and easier to audit.
What Will Businesses Need to Do?
When mandatory digital waste tracking goes live, businesses that produce, carry or handle waste will be required to:
- Record waste movements digitally at the point of collection
- Include details such as waste type, weight, carrier and destination
- Submit records to the central digital waste tracking system
- Keep digital records accessible for compliance checks
This applies to almost all business waste — including general waste, recycling, food waste and hazardous waste.
How Does it Affect Your Business?
If your business produces waste — whether you have one bin or multiple sites — you will need to be ready for the change. That means understanding your current waste process and ensuring you can capture the right information digitally.
Many businesses are still using paper WTNs filed away in offices. Under the new system, this will no longer be compliant.
How Sigma Solutions Can Help
We are already supporting businesses to get ready for digital waste tracking. Our FREE review looks at:
- Your current waste process — How you currently record and manage waste collections
- Your Duty of Care compliance — Ensuring you have the right paperwork and carriers
- Your readiness for digital tracking — What you will need to record digitally
- Your waste costs and efficiency — Right bin sizes, frequencies and segregation to reduce costs
We provide guidance on the transition, help you move away from paper waste transfer notes, and work with compliant waste carriers who will support digital recording.
Paperless = Hassle Free
Digital waste tracking will mean:
- No more paper waste transfer notes to store
- Real-time data on your waste and collections
- Instant access to your waste history for audits
- Clear proof of compliance
- Better visibility of every bin and every collection
It’s a positive change, but it does require preparation.
Be Ready Before It’s Mandatory
The mandatory rollout is expected to begin from 2026. Businesses that prepare early will have a smoother transition and avoid disruption.
Don’t wait until it becomes mandatory. Get your waste process reviewed now.
BOOK YOUR FREE UTILITY REVIEW TODAY!
Sigma Solutions offers independent advice, no obligation and 100% confidential reviews across Waste, Energy, Solar and Water.
Visit Business Utilities to book your free review and get ready for digital waste tracking.