Reconomy releases framework to ‘restructure’ waste sector

Working in collaboration with sustainability consultancy Sancroft, and was done in conjunction with the appointment of Steve Reed, Labour’s new Defra secretary. One of his five key priorities is to “create a roadmap to move Britain to a zero waste economy”.

After a consultation with waste experts and public and private sector organisations, Reconomy created the report, which consists of 10 “business-friendly” principles to “simplify” the waste system, and ultimately boost recycling rates.

The new framework includes:

• Creating national minimum standards to hold all waste providers to a new, higher sustainability standard
• Devising a new national infrastructure strategy consistent with today’s needs
• Developing nationally consistent and separate waste collection across the country
• Increasing frequency of Local Authority recycling collections
• Establishing a baseline data of waste figures to enable continuous monitoring
• Implementing Extended Producer Responsibility schemes to shift the burden of waste management onto producers
• Introducing eco-design standards including mandatory returnable packaging
• Ringfencing EPR funding to provide investment and subsidies to stimulate demand
• Digitising information to track resources digitally in real-time
• Creating an independent governing body to enact change

In terms of economic benefits, Reconomy said it is estimated that the full benefits of a circular economy could increase the value of the UK economy “by £82 billion” and create up to 284,000 jobs in London alone by 2030.

‘Protecting finite resources’

Guy Wakeley, group chief executive of Reconomy, said: “We are delighted to launch this framework to promote the circular economy and build a more sustainable future. To meet our climate objectives, protect finite resources and grow the economy, it is crucial this new government takes steps to help businesses and communities improve resource management.

“There is no better way for the new government to come good on its commitment to moving towards a zero-waste economy than by championing our guiding principles to unlock growth, benefit businesses and materially reduce emissions. We look forward to working closely with businesses and the new government to realise our vision of a waste free world and invite those interested to discuss this work with us in more detail.”