Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) – the timetable is laid out and Local Authorities have received their initial funding proposals for the collection and treatment of the 3 streams of food, fibre based materials and dry mixed recycling. Consistent collection schemes will lead to better segregated materials and higher yields of quality recyclables in due course. Where I am concerned is still the lack of stability in the value of those materials recycled. Authorities will be able to net off the proceeds of sale against the cost of the scheme but if material price volatility remains this financial risk still remains with the Authorities and not the producers as intended. This issue needs to be addressed or we will wait too long for the influence of missed targets to filter through to base EPR payments to stimulate progress.
Plastic tax – This noble attempt to improve the value of recycled plastic has failed due to lack and difficulty policing the content of recycled plastic in products entering the U.K. Without stability in the sale price of recycled plastic I’m afraid we will see more business failures as we have done in 2024. Regulators need to ensure that producers are using recycled plastic in their products to increase its demand and value.
Waste tracking – this need to be reinvigorated with clear details of the intended scheme and its introduction. Commercial and Industrial (C&I) volumes account for two thirds of the waste volumes in the U.K. and offer the greatest opportunity of circularity. The present lack of data will prevent the Circular Economy Taskforce from mapping the potential impact the C&I flows could contribute to industrial symbiosis and circularity. Waste tracking also would play a considerable part in curbing waste crime which damages legitimate businesses and tax receipts.
Circular Economy Taskforce – Need to be “more than a talking shop” advising Government on the tangible steps needed to be introduced to deliver sustainable economic growth through greater circularity in the economy, a key pillar of the Government’s strategy.