Waste Carrier Reforms: What’s Changing for Operators?

Following recent discussions with CIWM, further clarity has emerged around Defra’s proposed reforms to the waste carrier, broker and dealer system, first outlined in the August 2025 policy paper.

While some details are still subject to consultation, the direction of travel is becoming clear.

A shift from registrations to permits

The current registration system is expected to move towards environmental permits or exemptions, depending on activity and risk.

Three permit types are proposed:

• Waste controllers

• Waste transporters

• Combined controller-transporters

Existing upper-tier registrations are expected to transition at renewal, while lower-tier registrations will need to move to a permit or exemption within 12 months of the system going live.

Stronger focus on competence

The reforms introduce clearer expectations around technical competence across waste activities.

Holding competence as a Technically Competent Manager (TCM) for a site will not automatically cover these new roles. Additional competence will be required depending on activities such as transporting, handling, classification and treatment.

Assessment is expected to follow a module-based approach, allowing individuals to demonstrate competence relevant to their role.

How competence will be demonstrated

While still being finalised, the proposed model includes:

• Optional e-learning

• A mandatory in-person assessment

• Activity-based modules

There will also be an option for workplace competence, where organisations demonstrate capability collectively.

Responsibility will sit with the permit holder and nominated employees, with an expectation that training is cascaded across the wider team.

What this means in practice

The reforms signal a move towards more structured, accountable compliance systems.

With permits, defined responsibilities and ongoing competence requirements, operators will need to demonstrate not just that they are compliant, but how that competence is maintained over time.

Further detail is expected as consultation continues, but the overall direction is now clear.