This article applies to all four administrations

The UK’s Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) is a major step toward replacing paper-based waste transfer notes with a fully digital system. The system is being delivered on a phased basis across the UK.  

Phase one is currently underway and applies to all waste received at permitted facilities carrying out a waste activity. A private beta testing phase is currently live, and the new system will be available to all operators on a voluntary basis from April 2026 during Public Beta. More information on Phase one can be found here. 

Waste Paperwork Requirements

Please Note: At present and for the immediate future after mandatory use of the service comes into force, there will be no change to how you currently submit quarterly waste operator returns and hazardous waste consignee returns. You will still be required to comply with the Duty of Care and use Hazardous Waste Consignment Notes as usual until further notice. We understand that there will be additional reporting requirements with this approach. However, discovery for the implementation of future phases of the Digital Waste Tracking service has already begun; the findings will be used to allow us to plan how best to transition from current reporting methods to the new digital service. 

Phase Two will commence this year. This phase focuses on the extension of the service to those arranging waste movements and transporting waste. This will largely involve waste carriers, brokers and dealers as well as waste exporters, laying the foundation for full-chain tracking. 

What’s Happening in Phase Two? 

Preliminary timelines for Phase Two are:

Private Beta (Autumn 2026): Selected invited operators and software providers can start using the DWT service.
Public Beta (Spring 2027): All operators can voluntarily start using the service. 
Mandatory Rollout (October 2027): Reporting through DWT becomes compulsory for all required operators.

These are subject to change and will be communicated via the Circular Economy newsletter. 

Benefits of Phase 2 

Improved Traceability: Every waste receipt is digitally logged, reducing risk of waste crime. 
Real-Time Compliance: Instant validation reduces errors and speeds up reporting. 
Better Data Quality: Standardised formats improve accuracy for audits and environmental reporting. 
Foundation for Future Phases: Creates a reliable anchor for full-chain tracking, including carriers and brokers from 2027.

What Should You Do Now? 

Register Interest: Licensed or permitted receivers should sign up for the Phase 1 private beta which is still running for waste receivers as part of phase 1 until April 2026.
Plan for Mandatory Compliance: Permitted waste receiving sites, ensure processes are ready for Mandatory compliance

Phase 2 is a critical milestone in building a transparent, efficient, and compliant waste management system. By embracing digital integration now, your organisation will be ahead of the curve when full-chain tracking becomes the norm. More comprehensive information will be brought to stakeholders as the work continues.

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