WRAP has today outlined details of the project, which has been set up under the instruction of the Defra minister Rory Stewart, who has expressed his frustration with the number of different recycling collection systems in operation across the country (see letsrecycle.com story).
Previously the minister had stated his desire to see recycling guidance whittled down to a ‘menu’ of around five or six different models to which local authorities may look to develop collection systems.
Work has been led by a ‘Harmonisation and Consistency Working Group’, which comprises senior recycling officers, Defra officials and WRAP.
According to WRAP, initial focus of the project has considered a range of scenarios, models and different approaches to consistency among recycling collections and highlighted areas for further investigation.
Vision
This will culminate in the publication of a ‘vision for greater consistency in collections’ – which is expected to be available from around July. Current discussions indicate that this may include a consistent set of materials for recycling; including food waste, and the potential to rationalise collections around three main systems.
WRAP considers this could also offer an opportunity to standardise the types of collection containers used by councils.
Local authorities are being sought to demonstrate the different models being recommended across the project.
Consistency
Marcus Gover, director at WRAP, said: “We are looking to develop a vision for England that will offer local authorities a way to recycle greater volumes of higher quality materials whilst reducing costs, delivering good services to residents and supporting growth in the recycling sector. It won’t be a one size fits all solution and we want to work with local authorities, to demonstrate the business case for change.
“This is not just about what local authorities do though, all parts of the value chain have a role to play in achieving greater consistency and improving recycling.”
Resources Minister Rory Stewart said: “Recycling is really important for our economy and environment and I’m pleased to see the great progress underway to look at reducing the number of collection systems across England.
“I urge the whole waste sector to work together with us over the coming years to deliver greater consistency in the way we recycle. The work by WRAP will eventually mean everyone across the country will be clear on what and how they can recycle.”
This will help the country in recycling. Also, people could see the importance of recycle in environment.