Defra announces Digital Waste Tracking update

Defra has announced a policy update for the Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) reforms, including a new staged, implementation timeline, and information on who will need to comply with mandatory digital waste tracking requirements, and how they can do this. 

The broader approach to rolling out the service is as follows: 

• From Autumn 2025: service available to invited user groups (private beta) 

• Spring 2026: service publicly available to all permitted and licensed waste receiving sites.  

• October 2026: service becomes mandatory for all permitted and licensed waste receiving sites. 

• April 2027: planned expansion to other operators.

Defra said it would confirm by September 2025 who and what might fall into this waste receiving site category, and whether it will mandate use of the service alongside permit and licence holders.

Commenting on this announcement, David Gudgeon, head of external affairs at Reconomy brand, Reconomy Connect, said: ‘Defra’s updated timeline for Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) marks another step towards modernising a sector long burdened by inefficient, paper based systems. 

‘The clarity around phased implementation is welcome and provides a crucial opportunity for waste operators and processors to prepare for one of the most significant digital transformations the sector has ever seen.

‘As we move towards mandatory compliance in October 2026, it is essential that receivers of all sizes are fully supported to engage with the system, test it, and build it into their operations.

‘We now look forward to further clarity on what will fall under ‘waste receiving sites’ and the service fee model – both of which will be critical to ensuring DWT delivers on its potential to reduce waste crime, drive materials up the waste hierarchy, and turbocharge the UK’s transition to a circular economy.’