Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) is coming to the UK from 1 October 2026. But what does that actually mean for your business?

The way waste movements are recorded in the UK is changing. The Government is introducing a new national Digital Waste Tracking system to improve the way waste is recorded, monitored and managed.

For most of our customers, the immediate impact is expected to be minimal. Much of the information required is already captured through our existing systems and processes, and we’re preparing our management systems and operations ahead of the October 2026 changes.

Here’s what you need to know.

What is Digital Waste Tracking?

• Digital Waste Tracking is a new national system for recording information about waste as it moves through the waste management supply chain, from producer to recycler or responsible disposal endpoint.
• The system is designed to create a clearer digital record of waste movements, from where waste is produced through to its collection, receipt, treatment and final destination.
• It will help improve the quality and consistency of waste data, give regulators greater visibility of waste movements and help tackle waste crime.

When is Digital Waste Tracking starting?

The rollout is being introduced in stages.

From 1 October 2026, the first requirements will apply to permitted waste receiving sites. This includes sites such as those operated by Kenny Waste Management. In preparation for the first stage, Kenny Waste Management’s operations software has been tested and compliantly listed on DEFRA’s approved Digital Waste Tracking software list.

The next significant phase is slated for launch in October 2027, when requirements are expected to extend to waste carriers, brokers and dealers.

This means that not every business will experience the changes in the same way or at the same time.

What does this mean for Kenny Waste Management customers?

For the majority of our customers, there is no need to make major changes to your day-to-day waste arrangements.

We already capture much of the information that will be needed for Digital Waste Tracking, including information relating to waste movements, transfer documentation and weighbridge activity.

We’re therefore doing much of the preparation within our own systems. Our priority is to make sure the transition is as straightforward as possible for customers while continuing to meet our regulatory responsibilities.

What is Kenny Waste Management doing?

We’re reviewing and updating our internal systems and processes so that the relevant waste information can be managed and submitted through the new Digital Waste Tracking system.

This includes looking at how information is captured, stored and shared across our waste operations.

For customers, much of this work will happen behind the scenes.

If we need anything from you, we’ll let you know clearly and give you appropriate notice.

Do I need to change anything?

For most customers, not at this stage.

If you already provide the information we need for your waste services, we don’t currently expect Digital Waste Tracking to result in significant additional administration for your business.

There may, however, be occasions where we ask you to check or confirm information we hold to make sure our records are accurate.

If your business has additional responsibilities as a waste carrier, broker or dealer, the position is different. You should start considering how your own waste records are created, stored and managed ahead of the expected October 2027 expansion.

What should businesses be doing now?

Even if Digital Waste Tracking doesn’t require immediate action from your business, now is a good time to make sure your waste records are in order.

Consider:

• Reviewing your waste records – make sure information about your waste movements is accurate and up to date.
• Reducing reliance on paper – consider whether your waste documentation can be managed digitally.
• Checking your systems – make sure your existing software and processes can handle electronic waste information.
• Understanding your responsibilities – particularly if your business acts as a waste carrier, broker or dealer.
• Keeping up with guidance – requirements are being introduced in stages, so continue to monitor updates from the relevant environmental regulators.

What happens from October 2026?

From 1 October 2026, permitted waste receiving sites will begin operating under the first phase of the Digital Waste Tracking requirements.

For Kenny Waste Management customers, this means much of the reporting activity will be incorporated into our existing operational processes.

You should continue to use your normal Kenny Waste Management arrangements unless we tell you otherwise.

As further phases of the system are introduced, we’ll keep customers informed about anything that could affect them.

Digital Waste Tracking FAQs

Is Digital Waste Tracking replacing my waste collection service?

No.

DWT changes the way information about waste movements is recorded and reported. It does not change your existing waste collection arrangements with Kenny Waste Management.

Do I need to register for Digital Waste Tracking?

Not necessarily.

The requirements depend on your role within the waste management chain and the phase of the rollout. For many waste producers, there will be no significant additional action required initially.

Will I still receive waste documentation?

Yes. Your normal waste documentation and records will continue to be provided where applicable. The way information is recorded and shared is changing as the digital system is introduced.

Will this mean more paperwork?

The intention is actually to move waste tracking towards more digital record keeping and less reliance on traditional paper processes.

For Kenny Waste Management customers, we’re working to manage as much of the additional reporting as possible through our own systems.

What if I use Kenny Waste Management for multiple sites?

The introduction of DWT does not change the basic principle of managing your waste services across multiple locations.

However, accurate site and waste information will become increasingly important as waste movements are recorded digitally. We’ll continue to work with customers to ensure the information we hold is accurate.

What if my business is a waste carrier, broker or dealer?

The later phase of DWT is expected to introduce additional requirements for these businesses from October 2027.

If this applies to you, it’s worth reviewing your current processes now rather than waiting until the deadline approaches.

Will Kenny Waste Management tell me if I need to do something?

Yes.

If we need additional information or action from your business, we’ll provide clear instructions and give you as much notice as possible.

Where can I find out more?

Digital Waste Tracking is being introduced in stages, and further guidance will continue to be published as the system develops.

We’ll keep this page updated as the requirements become clearer and will communicate directly with customers where changes affect the services we provide.

If you have a question about how Digital Waste Tracking could affect your waste services, please speak to your account manager, or usual Kenny Waste Management contact. We are here support you and your business understand any legislative changes.