Boris Johnson pays a visit to DS Smith

Discussions were held on DS Smith’s business model and key elements of the government’s ongoing consultations on the UK Packaging Waste Regulations and the Resources and Waste Strategy, which opened last week.

During the visit to the site, which lies in Mr Johnson’s Uxbridge and South Ruislip constituency, key figures from DS Smith, including its recycling division UK managing director, Mathew Prosser, focussed on the importance of quality and shared the company’s ‘eight must haves for recycling’ that ensure material is suitable for reprocessing.

‘Important’

Following the visit, Mr Johnson said he saw ‘how important it is that government collaborates with industry experts’ around the Strategy.

Mr Johnson said: “Following my visit to DS Smith’s Uxbridge recycling depot, I can see how critical it is that government continues to collaborate with industry experts around the Resources and Waste Strategy. Businesses such as DS Smith provide government with hands-on advice that will allow the UK to further strengthen its position as a leader on environmental and economic policy.

“Sustainability is a top priority for me and it has been fascinating to learn more about the circular business model operated by DS Smith here in my constituency.”

Peter Clayson, head of government and community affairs welcomed the government’s “increased focus” on recycling and sustainability. “At DS Smith we have a purpose of redefining packaging for a changing world, helping communities to continue to thrive in this rapidly changing environment. The continuous work we do with the government will enable us to build a better future for consumers and the environment.”

DS Smith

The company – a major provider of corrugated packaging – is responsible for over 250 operations across the globe. DS Smith said it also runs a community programme focusing on education and environment in the local areas in which it operates. The packaging giant works with numerous local stakeholders, including schools and governments to drive understanding and innovation.