Defra brings in producer responsibility for magazines

The targets will see 50% of magazines recycled by 2007, increasing to 70% by 2013 and follow an agreement reached by the government and the Periodical Publishers Association.

” This may well be a voluntary agreement, but it commits the publishing industry to some tough targets and pledges “
– Ben Bradshaw, local environment minister
Local Environmental Minister Ben Bradshaw said he was delighted that the government and the PPA had reached an agreement. “I’m delighted – this may well be a voluntary agreement, but it commits the publishing industry to some tough targets and pledges.”

Mr Bradshaw continued: “We are determined that producers of products must increasingly take responsibility for their products when they become waste. Through this agreement the PPA is playing its part in helping to tackle the UK’s waste problem for which they should be applauded.

“In addition, today’s agreement will make an important contribution in helping the UK meet its national targets for recycling and composting household waste.”

Currently the PPA estimate that some 40% of all magazines are sent for recycling – some 270,000 tonnes.

The agreed recycling targets (by weight) are:

• 50% by the end of 2007
• 60% by the end of 2010
• 70% by the end of 2013

As well as increasing recycling of magazines the PPA have agreed to use recycled materials in magazine packaging, help raise awareness amongst readers on recycling issues and explore ways to increase the content of recycled paper in the magazines themselves.

The PPA represents about 90% of the UK magazine market turnover – including magazines such as Heat, FHM, New Scientist and The Economist. Around 400 companies are currently in membership, incorporating around 2,300 consumer, business and professional magazines.