Digital waste tracking
Digital waste tracking is a UK-wide initiative to modernise and simplify how waste movements are recorded, from the point waste is produced, to its final destination.
Digital waste tracking will eventually replace existing non-digital, systems used to record waste movements. This will help reduce waste crime, support compliant businesses and improve environmental protection.
Digital Waste Tracking does not replace existing waste duty of care requirements. Businesses must continue to comply with their duty of care obligations, including taking all reasonable measures to ensure that waste is managed correctly and completing any required records.
How Is it being introduced?
Digital waste tracking is being introduced in two phases across the whole of the UK.
- Phase 1 – for waste receivers (for example: waste transfer stations, scrap yards, landfills, energy from waste facilities, composting sites)
- Phase 2 – for waste transporters (collectors, carriers, brokers and dealers)
Implementation dates In Northern Ireland and Scotland:
- Phase 1 public beta started in April 2026 and becomes mandatory in January 2027
- Phase 2 public beta is expected in April 2027 becoming mandatory in October 2027
What you must do
If phase 1 applies to you, you will need to:
- Register to use the system. See Defra’s guidance on how to register with digital waste tracking
- Record the required information relating to received waste
Further information
DEFRA – digital waste tracking
DAERA – digital waste tracking in Northern Ireland
SEPA: digital waste tracking in Scotland