The Waste Problem Tennis Clubs Don't See

Have you noticed how fast the bins fill up during matches, social events, or weekend tournaments? Volunteers work hard to empty them, members sometimes leave things wherever is easiest, and staff do their best to manage. Still, many local tennis clubs haven’t really considered where all that waste goes in the end.

Now, there's a new piece of legislation coming into effect, known as England’s Simpler Recycling law. Right now, it means that any workplace with over 10 employees that produces waste like household waste must sort its rubbish. That means separating dry recyclables, food waste, and everything else. But here's the thing: from April 1, 2027, this rule is going to apply to everyone, including smaller places and even those tiny businesses and clubs with fewer than 10 employees. And that includes most grassroots tennis clubs like yours.

"It's amazing how many clubs don't realize where their waste ends up until new rules make them pay closer attention," says Iain Lancaster, Club Sport Manager at the LTA. "No one's doing it on purpose, it's just that it's hard to see the full picture and keep things consistent".

With that deadline looming, getting a head start is key. By looking at what you're all throwing away now, you can make changes gradually. That way, you'll avoid the last-minute rush, unnecessary expenses, and any contamination headaches during tournaments or social events. So how do you actually get started?

Right Bin, Right Place

Getting waste separation right at tennis clubs is quite simple. Once everyone, staff and members alike, knows the drill, it’s a breeze. Let’s look at some real situations. After a tournament BBQ, clean bottles and cans from drinks go into the dry recycling, while leftover salad, burger buns or paper napkins covered in food belong in food waste. During a busy junior coaching session, empty juice cartons and fruit peel from the snack area go in their separate bins, making it easy for kids and parents to get it right. For your dry recycling, think clean stuff: bottles, cans, cardboard, coffee cups, and all those paper bits and pieces like score sheets, flyers for upcoming events, or club notices. Food waste is your leftover sandwiches, fruit peelings, tea bags, and coffee grounds, basically, anything that comes from the kitchens, bars, or catering areas. Then, anything that’s left, contaminated packaging, plastic cutlery, or broken pieces, goes into residual waste.

First, observe current waste patterns. Notice if recyclables get mixed with food or if paper cups land in residual bins. Understanding habits shows where changes are needed and helps the club prepare for new systems.

Small actions such as taking note of problem areas, labelling bins clearly, and communicating with members can dramatically improve recycling without disrupting operations. Teaching volunteers to identify common mistakes during events helps the club build a culture of correct disposal before formal systems are in place.

“If members can see exactly where items go and why, compliance happens almost automatically,” says Elliott Banks, Strategic Accounts Manager at Waste and Washroom. “The key is designing a system that works with the way people behave in busy club environments. Clubs should not have to change their routines. Bins, signage, and collection schedules should work seamlessly in everyday operations making full compliance smoother when the 1 April 2027 deadline arrives.”

Introducing correct waste separation can feel overwhelming at first, but clubs don’t have to do it alone. According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, new government regulations on Simpler Recycling, fully rolling out in April 2027, are designed to make recycling more straightforward and efficient by standardising how mixed waste, dry recyclables, and food waste are managed. Providers offering waste collection services for sports clubs, such as Waste & Washroom, can help grassroots venues, such as tennis clubs, smoothly integrate these updated waste collection practices into their daily operations with packages customised to their peculiar needs.

Next steps for your Clubs

For tennis clubs at the grassroots level, there are some unique challenges to navigate. Often run by volunteers and just a few staff members, these clubs usually must make do with shared spaces, and things like tournaments or social gatherings can lead to a sudden increase in various types of waste. Think about it: clubhouses, courtside kiosks, and bars all produce different kinds of waste. What's more, older contracts might not even cover proper food or dry waste collection, which can unintentionally put clubs in a tricky spot when it comes to compliance.

“Clubs often know they should separate waste, but their existing layouts and collection schedules, were not designed for this legislation,” says Scott Partington, Director at LTA Buying Group. “Without review or audit, even a well-intentioned tennis club can fall short.”

So, what should your club do next? Here are some immediate steps to help you prepare:

- Start by reviewing your current waste collection arrangements and check if you already separate dry recyclables and food waste.

- Talk to your waste contractor/provider to find out what services are available and if changes will be needed.

- Observe how bins are used on busy days to spot problem areas that need fixing.

- Begin discussing new requirements and changes with your staff, committee members, and key volunteers.

- Plan for updates to bin layouts and clear signage but know that these changes can be phased in gradually over the next few years. 

Focus now on raising awareness, gathering information, and identifying the biggest issues at your club. Detailed upgrades to systems like new bins, signage, or updated contracts can wait until you have a clear picture of your club’s needs and any new local guidance.

By understanding your club's current waste habits and how everyone uses the bins, you can create waste management systems that work for you, not just in theory. 

Simpler Recycling isn't just another regulation; it's a great chance for tennis clubs to step into the modern age. It’s a way to streamline operations, take some pressure off the day-to-day, and build a club culture that's all about looking after our environment.

By taking steps now, clubs can ensure they're not just following the rules but setting a positive example for their members and the wider community. With the right approach, recycling can become second nature. making your club an even better place for everyone, on and off the court.

Need support preparing your club for the 2027 changes?

Find out more about waste collection services for sports clubs from Waste & Washroom, including support for clubhouses, event days and compliant recycling collections.