Packaging waste compliance scheme Valpak has revealed that it has met all its members' 2010 packaging waste obligations.
Valpak has highlighted the fact that there are a number of uncertainties for the sector as a whole in 2011 including the potential impact of any government announcements on future PRN targets in its waste review and any fraud which is found in the system.
The scheme notes that to counter any unexpected developments in the market, it buys across the year from a number of different providers and through a variety of contracts.
Steve Gough, Valpak's chief executive, said: “We are pleased to announce that we have complied with the Packaging Waste Regulations and that we have met our customers' obligations for 2010.”
Success
And, Mr Gough, said that the confirmation of success for 2010 was important “when a number of issues are currently facing the market, as it gives our customers and the government reassurance. Glass prices have risen in the last month, which we believe to be related to investigations reported by the Environment Agency and a slowdown in glass collections due to the bad weather in December.
“The Packaging Waste Recovery Note system responded to this reduction in supply by causing prices to rise late in the year. This is the system doing its job as it was designed to subsidise the market when growth is required.”
The recession in 2009 led to a reduction in packaging reported by obligated companies. However, Valpak's obligation share grew marginally despite this decline as it won some large new members off other schemes.
Developments
Mr Gough added: “Our eyes are now firmly on 2011 and 2012. We are watching market developments closely and we are fully participating in the Government review, which enables us to provide insight as to how changes may support packaging minimisation, recycling and recovery in the UK.
“It is our aim to ensure that any changes that take place will benefit those who are truly recovering and recycling packaging waste. And that any changes will support the continued growth and performance of packaging recycling in the UK.”
He said: “We will continue to support all parts of the recycling infrastructure and to keep our customers aware of any new opportunities and challenges which may face the sector over the next few months.
“We are already working closely with our customers to help them to achieve their zero waste goals and we are measuring their packaging weights reductions.”
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