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03/02/2026
With tighter plans to restore nature and beta testing for the long-awaited digital waste tracking system, we’re starting 2026 as we mean to go on.
Digital waste tracking in beta testing
The long-promised digital waste tracking service is closer to implementation following the start of private beta testing. The government wants to introduce the new system from October 2026 for all permitted and waste-receiving sites, such as landfills or recycling centres. It will be phased in for all others in the waste chain and even exempt sites in 2027.
This will replace the current paper-based waste tracking system and provide a digital record of waste movements that can be used to monitor compliance in real time. tinyurl.com/mr76kvd3
Energy performance regs update
The Scottish government has published the Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations 2025, which will replace the previous 2008 legislation on 31 October 2026. The new regulations introduce a modernised approach to energy performance certification (EPC) for both domestic and non-domestic properties in Scotland, with significant changes to rating systems, redesigned certificates, clearer metrics and a five-year validity period. A new EPC meeting the requirements of the new regulations will be required from October.
https://tinyurl.com/4zcp9pv7
Better plans for nature
Defra has revised its Environmental Improvement Plan to provide a clear roadmap for restoring nature. Where the previous plan “lacked rigour and detail”, this revision will accelerate progress towards Environment Act targets, tackle challenges posed by the nature and climate crises, and support growth.
The plan provides detail and clarity on accountability for delivering each commitment, with measurable outcomes so that progress can be tracked. For the first time, detailed Environment Act target delivery plans will be published, making it easier for the public to understand where progress is being made.
https://tinyurl.com/2txyzz7j
CE recognition revamp
Amendments are proposed to the Ecodesign for Energy Related Products Regulations 2010 to extend the CE marking recognition mechanism so that it applies to new measures made under the regulations, as happens under the Ecodesign Directive. The aim is to future-proof the existing policy of CE recognition and provide long-term certainty to business.
https://tinyurl.com/3u7mbbb2
Plans to improve ESG ratings
The Financial Conduct Authority has established proposals to bring ESG ratings for companies under its remit and improve their transparency and performance. The finalised rules are to be outlined in late 2026, with the new regime introduced from June 2028.
https://tinyurl.com/43e9a4x2
Update to waste duty of care
The Scottish government is consulting on a proposed update to the 2012 duty of care code of practice for managing controlled waste. It will require holders of waste to separate and collect plastic films from 31 March 2027.
https://tinyurl.com/4n42meue
Boost for EV charging infrastructure
The Department for Transport is consulting on permitted development rights to support the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. These rights allow certain building works to be carried out without the need to submit a planning application.
https://tinyurl.com/4zymhw34
A company has been fined £1m for running a waste site handling catalytic converters without an environmental permit. The company’s sole director, Edvars Stancik, who was convicted at a previous hearing, has had a warrant issued for his arrest.
https://tinyurl.com/2s3vtj74
In Stop Portland Waste Incinerator v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, an appeal from a campaign group – against a decision upholding a grant of planning permission for an energy recovery facility – has been dismissed.
https://tinyurl.com/56h6fe2j
Neil Howe PISEP is head of writing at Barbour EHS
