With the first phase of Digital Waste Tracking now underway, attention is turning to the next stage of implementation. But what will Phase 2 involve, when could it be introduced, and how can waste businesses prepare?
Following discussions at the Digital Waste Tracking Conference on 20 October 2026, it is clear that the next phase will be a significant development for the UK waste industry.
However, lessons from Phase 1 are expected to play an important role in shaping how and when the next requirements are introduced.
What will Phase 2 include?
Phase 2 is expected to expand Digital Waste Tracking to additional parts of the waste supply chain.
Areas identified for inclusion include:
- Waste carriers, brokers and dealers
- Green list waste movements
- Activities operating under waste exemptions
This expansion will bring additional organisations and operational activities into the digital reporting process.
For many businesses, it may mean reviewing existing procedures, introducing new systems or changing how waste information is recorded and shared.
When will Phase 2 begin?
During the conference, 1 October 2027 was discussed as a target date for Phase 2 implementation.
However, speakers emphasised that the timeline must be realistic and informed by the experience of Phase 1.
At the time of the conference, a start date for private beta testing had not yet been confirmed.
Before Phase 2 can be successfully implemented, further work is needed to clarify requirements, test the system and ensure businesses have sufficient time to prepare.
It is therefore important to recognise that the proposed date is a target rather than a confirmed mandatory deadline.
Why is industry engagement so important?
One of the strongest messages from the conference was the need for greater participation in the development and testing process.
Phase 1 highlighted the difficulties that can arise when systems are introduced without sufficient testing across different operational environments.
For Phase 2, the priorities include:
Involving more businesses in testing: A wider range of operators will help identify issues before they affect the industry.
Working closely with software providers: Systems need to meet regulatory requirements while remaining practical for everyday operations.
Engaging smaller operators: Smaller businesses may have fewer resources and less awareness of the changes, making targeted communication particularly important.
Clarifying responsibilities: Businesses need to understand what information must be submitted, who is responsible and when reporting is required.
The aim is to create a system that works for the entire waste supply chain, not just larger organisations with established digital infrastructure.
Albion Environmental’s involvement: Recognising the importance of industry collaboration, we have approached Defra directly to offer digital expertise and support in preparing for Phase 2. We believe that meaningful industry input, particularly from a digital and operational perspective, will be essential in helping shape a system that is practical, effective and fit for purpose across the wider waste industry.
What about Phase 3?
The conference also briefly discussed the possibility of Phase 3, which is intended to extend Digital Waste Tracking to waste producers.
However, speakers indicated that this phase is not yet guaranteed.
The immediate priority remains strengthening Phase 1 and developing a workable approach to Phase 2.
Businesses should continue monitoring official updates rather than making assumptions about future requirements.
How should businesses prepare?
Although some details of Phase 2 are still being developed, there are practical steps organisations can take now.
1. Review your existing waste records
Check that waste descriptions, European Waste Catalogue (EWC) codes and other essential information are accurate and consistently recorded.
2. Understand your responsibilities
Identify which activities your organisation carries out and how future DWT requirements may affect them.
3. Speak to your software provider
Find out how your existing systems will support Digital Waste Tracking and whether any changes may be required.
4. Prepare your team
Consider how digital reporting could affect drivers, site operatives, administrative staff and management.
5. Stay engaged
Follow updates from Defra and the relevant environmental regulators, and participate in industry engagement or testing opportunities where possible.
Looking ahead
Phase 2 represents an opportunity to build on the progress already made while addressing the challenges identified during the initial implementation.
The conference reinforced the importance of learning, testing and improving before introducing further mandatory requirements.
For waste businesses, the message is clear: even where deadlines and requirements are still being finalised, early preparation can make the transition considerably easier.
Need support preparing for Digital Waste Tracking?
Albion Environmental can help businesses understand the evolving requirements of DWT and prepare their teams through practical training and guidance.
Contact info@albion-environmental.co.uk to discuss your organisation’s DWT requirements.
Coming next: Can Digital Waste Tracking Help Tackle Waste Crime? We explore how improved visibility of waste movements could support enforcement and a more circular economy.