Government Set To Cut Plastic Waste

The Government has launched its consultation on introducing a world-leading tax on plastic packaging which does not meet a minimum threshold of at least 30% recycled content. This will address the current issue that it is often being cheaper to use new, non-recycled plastic material despite its greater environmental impact.

A further three consultations have been launched to overhaul our waste system, cut plastic pollution, and move towards a more circular economy. The consultations will provide detail on plans to make packaging producers pay the full cost of dealing with their waste. Plus, it will introduce a consistent set of materials collected across England from households for recycling, and bringing in a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for cans and bottles, subject to consultation.

How we manage our waste – now and in the future – affects us all and your input is vital.

Consultation on reforming the UK packaging producer responsibility system

Introducing a Deposit Return Scheme

Consultation on Consistency in Household and Business Recycling Collections

The consultations are open to businesses and members of the public, and will run for 12 weeks between 18 Feb 2019 to 13 May 2019.