“Major” packaging overhaul as new strategy announced

The Secretary of State for Environment revealed a number of measures aimed at cutting the amount of packaging that is produced, reducing the amount that is thrown away and increasing the amount that is recycled.

Mr Benn said: “We need to rethink the way we deal with packaging, from production line to recycling bin. The plans we've announced today set out how we will achieve that – with the goal of making it as easy as possible for consumers to avoid needless packaging in the first place and to get rid of what they do receive in a way that doesn't just create more landfill. I also want consumers to play their part by reporting excess packaging wherever they see it – because we're all in this together.

“In a few years time I want people to be able to shop without having to worry about what they're going to do with the packaging when they get home, and where it will go after they've disposed of it.”

The new plans, which will involve a “major overhaul of packaging over the next decade” will see consumers being encouraged to report excessive packaging to Trading Standards; see WRAP working with manufacturers to reduce packaging; increase the recyclability of packaging and produce guidance for manufacturers on how to design packaging with recyclability in mind.

There are also plans to encourage reuse and expand the use of refillable and reusable plastic to give consumers the option of buying everyday products, such as laundry detergent, by taking empty containers back to the shop to have them refilled.

The Government is also set to work with local authorities and packaging producers to increase the types of packaging that is collected for recycling.

Recycling rates for plastic, glass and aluminium are also set to be targeted for improvement with more 'on the go' recycling points in public places and better glass collections for pubs and clubs. The possibility of banning aluminium and glass from landfill is also being considered.

Positive difference 

Liz Goodwin, chief executive of WRAP, welcomed the strategy. She commented: “Packaging waste is a major issue for shoppers, local authorities and retailers – and we need to join forces to tackle it. By working across the whole supply chain, we have greater opportunities to make a positive difference. We need to cut excess packaging whilst recognising that the right packaging can help products last longer and so reduce waste. This is crucial if we are to meet UK targets for keeping waste out of landfill.

“We have a chance for real innovation here – so that, from design to disposal, packaging is the very best it can be – for shoppers and the environment.”

Although there has not yet been any official reaction to the strategy, some organisations yesterday reported what they wanted – and didn't want – it to include.

The Local Government Association (LGA) expressed concern that it would “not go far enough in setting tough targets for retailers and manufacturers.

Paul Bettison, chairman of the LGA, said yesterday: “Hard pressed families don't want to see their money going towards paying for packaging and landfill taxes. If retailers create unnecessary rubbish, they should help shoppers by paying for it to be recycled.”

Meanwhile, INCPEN, which represents the packaging sector, said that it didn't want the strategy to be too prescriptive.

INCPEN director, Jane Bickerstaffe, defended the need for some packaging. She said: “Not only does packaging keep food fresh and fit to eat but it keeps everyone's costs down: the cost of producing food, retailing costs, shoppers' costs and councils' costs.”