These are challenging times for the waste management industry. The UK recycling rate is fairly static at 45 per cent, against the target of 65 per cent by 2030, set by the National Infrastructure Commission. The industry is also managing the fallout of the waste import ban by China and, following increased public concerns about plastics and recycling, the government has launched several major consultations around waste and recycling. These have the potential to build a flourishing recycling industry and circular economy but, to achieve this, the consultations need a joined-up approach, with stakeholders working together to achieve a coherent outcome. Multiple recycling collection systems are used across the UK, and industry and the public arc calling for greater consistency in what materials are collected, and how. This would drive greater volumes of high-quality waste streams by making it easier, and simpler, for consumers to recycle, creating a stronger foundation for the development of local waste infrastructure. We are keen to see beverage cartons included in the core collection materials, as this will boost carton kerbside collection, currently standing at 69 per cent in the UK.
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