Minister hints at ‘reshaped’ waste policy

The Department is currently preparing the plan to provide a long-term outline of its environmental policies, on a range of issues across its portfolio.

Originally slated for publication in summer 2016, the 25-year plan was pushed back in the wake of the EU Referendum – in order to give the government time to ‘consider its long term vision’ in the wake of the Brexit vote (see letsrecycle.com story).

Publication of a framework outlining some of the key areas of action within the plan is expected in the coming weeks, and will coincide with a series of consultations on potential policy proposals, which is expected to include waste and recycling.

Resource-efficiency

Dr Coffey was questioned this week by the Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP Paul Monaghan on the steps being taken by Defra to ‘remove the barriers to a more resource-efficient economy’.

In response Dr Coffey claimed that the Department is considering options for ‘reshaping waste and resources policy and regulatory framework’ to form a part of the 25-year plan.

She wrote: “As part of our planning for the UK’s exit from the EU, we are considering the options for reshaping our waste and resources policy and regulatory framework to encourage the more sustainable use of resources. We are currently developing a 25 year environment plan and will consult stakeholders early this year on the priorities for resources, waste and recycling.

”Views on the key barriers to resource efficiency and ideas for addressing these will be welcome. In parallel, we are working to ensure alignment with other plans in development such as the Government’s new industrial strategy and our emissions reduction plan.”

In recent weeks calls have intensified for Defra to consider changes to the producer responsibility regime to favour increased involvement by product manufacturers to fund the handling of their products at the end of life.

It is unclear whether Defra is likely to mirror proposals being put forward within the EU to amend waste legislation as part of the Circular Economy Package, with the Department having expressed reluctance to pursue a 65% by 2030 recycling target (see letsrecycle.com story).