The government’s Resources and Waste Strategy, published today, could significantly cut waste and boost recycling, Friends of the Earth said today – but only if clear targets and action are included.
The environmental campaign group also says tougher measures are still needed to cut plastic pollution.
Commenting on the government’s Resources and Waste Strategy, published today, Friends of the Earth waste campaigner Julian Kirby said: “At long last the government appears to be getting serious about tackling England’s vast mountains of waste. “Forcing firms to pay the full cost dealing with the packaging they create is great news, and will give companies a clear incentive to produce less waste in the first place. “But while there are many welcome initiatives in this strategy, there is still too much reliance on voluntary measures, and precious little commitment to targets to reduce waste and boost recycling. “This strategy also gives little recognition to the vital importance of cutting the production of plastic in the first place. Recycling has a role to play – but at the end of the day it will only slow the rate of increase in plastic pollution. “Michael Gove must come up with a plan to phase out the use of non-essential single-use plastics by 2025, and end the flow of plastic pollution from all sources – including from paints, tyres and clothing.”
