Councils to be surveyed over waste data systems

The work is being spearheaded by Devon county council in its capacity as a member of the Waste Data Flow User Group.

WasteDataFlow is the web-based system for municipal waste data reporting by UK local authorities to government. Its working group’s remit includes exploring better ways of working between local authorities.

At present, local authorities use a number of different management systems to handle and collate their data relating to waste and recycling and it is hoped that a standardised system might save authorities money and time. This is particularly important as most local authorities are under pressure to continue service delivery with fewer resources.

Devon

The initiative was discussed at a meeting in late 2019 of the WasteDataFlow User Group, during which Iain Stevens of Devon county council presented an update on the work.

In a statement, Devon county council this month confirmed that the survey is intended for all English authorities and is due to be sent out soon, possibly through the Waste Data Flow User Group.

A spokesman for the county council told letsrecycle.com: “Local authorities use a variety of different data management systems but the rate of digital transformation now offers significant opportunities for local authorities moving forwards.

“The WasteDataFlow User Group was therefore an ideal opportunity to gauge wider feelings with member authorities and Devon is leading on this work for the Group.

“Options for taking this work forward will be explored once the results of the survey are known, but there is no intention for Devon to lead on any type of joint procurement exercise going forwards.”