A £24 billion sector that is on the move
As environmental targets tighten and consumer expectations shift, the waste management sector is undergoing a period of intense change. From advanced recycling technologies to circular economy strategies, waste management services are now about much more than disposal – they’re central to environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.
The UK waste management services market is no different to other advanced economies. Contributing in excess of £24 billion to the economy annually, it’s a sector that delivers a vital public service but also one that is undergoing change.
At Leading Edge, we provide waste management market research that informs confident decision-making. Our work supports both commercial and public sector organisations looking to navigate this complex and evolving industry through data-led insight.
What can market research offer?
Waste management services market research is the process of collecting and analysing data related to the handling, treatment, disposal, and recycling of waste. It spans a range of services to help those in the sector understand factors such as:
- Market size and growth trends
- Policy and regulatory frameworks
- Competitive landscapes
- Technology developments
- Customer and stakeholder needs
Leading Edge use both quantitative and qualitative research methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the market for our clients ranging from macro-level trends to niche service opportunities.
Market overview & growth drivers
According to recent data, the global waste management market was valued in excess of US$ 1.3 trillion in 2022 with CAGR for the second half of this decade of 5%+ through to 2030. Similar to other markets in Europe, the UK waste management sector is continuing to benefit from market expansion with drivers ranging from:
- Population growth and urbanisation, both of which are increasing overall waste volumes.
- Circular economy initiatives, and moves by the sector towards greater energy recovery, decarbonisation of fleets as well as the integration of ESG efforts.
- Tighter environmental legislation, especially around packaging waste (EPR) as well as moves to standardise kerbside collections and raise food waste recovery rates.
- Technological innovation, such as the use of AI to enhance waste sorting at MRFs, the roll-out of smart bin technology and further waste-to-energy solutions.
Such developments will influence everything from material flows and infrastructure investment to business models and pricing making the need for accurate market research increasingly important.
Our research capabilities
At Leading Edge, we have over 30 years of experience delivering bespoke market research across the environmental and energy sectors. Within waste management, we support clients by:
- Evaluating customers and customer groups to assess their viability
- Mapping regulatory change and understanding implications for service delivery
- Identifying demand trends across industrial, commercial and municipal segments
- Benchmarking competitors and spotting white space in the market
- Supporting business case development and investment planning
Whether you’re a waste contractor exploring new markets, a manufacturer or technology provider with a new innovation, or a local authority looking to future-proof service delivery we can offer insight that drives growth.
Who we work with
We support a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Waste and recycling contractors
- Infrastructure investors
- Local authorities and government departments
- Environmental and engineering consultants
- Cleantech and wider waste technology developers
Why choose Leading Edge?
- Independent and tailored market research
- Decades of sector expertise, particularly in waste, recycling and energy
- Ability to translate complex data into clear, strategic insight
- A commitment to helping clients deliver sustainable outcomes
Let’s talk
Waste management is no longer a static utility service – it is a fast-evolving ecosystem central to resource efficiency and climate resilience. Whether you’re investing in assets, responding to tenders, or evaluating market entry, strategic research is your competitive edge.
➡️ Contact us to discuss how we can support your strategic planning or market development in this sector.
Chris Hadley
Lead, Environment and Energy
