Most businesses are unprepared for the new waste regulations coming into force on October 31st and could face penalties as a result, according to Grant Thornton.

"Every business in the country, including high street retailers, City offices and country pubs must now produce their own reports on how they have treated their waste, in accordance with the EA's guidelines," stated Nigel Mattravers, waste specialist and director at Grant Thornton.

"Whatever the enforcement system, it is clear that UK businesses must start preparing for the changes, now."

The new regulations will require companies to treat non-hazardous waste before it is disposed of in landfill sites, and operators of landfills will not be permitted to accept untreated waste from business.

Liquid wastes will also be banned from landfill sites (the exception being small amounts of liquid within solid waste, such as milk cartons).

For more information about the new regulations, please click here to visit the BusinessLink website.