Monthly Legislation Update: June 2026
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
This month's update covers environmental, sustainability and social value developments that may affect UK businesses. We've summarised the key changes, what they mean and which sectors may be affected.
BNG guidance for major infrastructure published
What changed.
On 2 June, Defra published BNG guidance for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects. BNG becomes mandatory for NSIPs from 2 November 2026.
What it means.
Major schemes now have clearer guidance on biodiversity baselines, credits, legal agreements and monitoring.
Industries most affected.
Infrastructure, construction, energy, water, rail, ports, waste.
BNG consultation closes 10 June
What changed.
Defra’s brownfield/minor development BNG consultation closes on 10 June.
What it means.
Developers should watch for changes that may affect exemptions, viability and planning evidence.
Industries most affected.
Housebuilding, planning, property, landowners, local authorities.
Digital Waste Tracking regulations laid
What changed.
The Digital Waste Tracking Regulations were laid in Parliament and are due to come into force on 1 October 2026.
What it means.
Waste receivers should prepare systems, staff and data processes now.
Industries most affected.
Waste management, construction, manufacturing, logistics, FM, healthcare.
Digital Waste Tracking public beta live
What changed.
The public beta is available, and permitted waste receiving sites are encouraged to start uploading data.
What it means.
Early use gives businesses time to test processes before it becomes mandatory.
Industries most affected.
Waste sites, recyclers, transfer stations, treatment sites.
PackUK 2026/27 EPR operational plan updated
What changed.
PackUK updated its 2026/27 operational plan on 5 May, including forecast EPR costs and fee approach.
What it means.
Packaging producers should review likely cost exposure and packaging data quality.
Industries most affected.
Food & drink, retail, e-commerce, manufacturers, importers.
EPR file guidance updated in May
What changed.
Government updated guidance on creating organisation and packaging data files on 21–22 May.
What it means.
Businesses submitting EPR data should check file formats and data accuracy.
Industries most affected.
Packaging producers, compliance schemes, retailers, importers.
EU Packaging Regulation guidance published for UK exporters
What changed.
UK government published guidance on EU PPWR on 21 May.
What it means.
UK exporters selling packaged goods into the EU need to check labelling, recyclability and reuse requirements.
Industries most affected.
Exporters, food & drink, cosmetics, consumer goods, packaging.
Climate Adaptation Reporting consultation closed
What changed.
Defra’s fifth round Adaptation Reporting Power consultation closed on 20 May.
What it means.
More climate-risk reporting expectations may follow for infrastructure and public-function organisations.
Industries most affected.
Utilities, transport, water, energy, telecoms, public bodies.
Environmental project delivery guidance updated
What changed.
The government’s Teal Book environment and sustainability chapter was updated in May/June.
What it means.
Public-sector projects and suppliers should expect stronger links between delivery, environment, sustainability and social value.
Industries most affected.
Public-sector suppliers, construction, consultancy, infrastructure, FM.
SME public procurement engagement ramps up in June
What changed.
GCA is running SME meet-the-buyer events in June, including technology and estates sessions.
What it means.
SMEs should be ready to explain social value, carbon reduction and sustainability credentials clearly.
Industries most affected.
SMEs bidding for public contracts, tech, estates, FM, professional services.
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