LARAC has urged the Government to use the recently published EU recycling target of 70% to reinvigorate UK waste policy. LARAC would like to see focus back on the 50% national target so it can be used as a stepping stone to higher recycling levels and a possible 70% in the future. LARAC believes that a 70% target will only be achievable with investment in infrastructure and a more holistic approach to packaging design and collection.
Andrew Bird, Chair LARAC, said "Wales and Scotland have already adopted 70% targets and backed it up with clear policy direction and targeted funding support. If a similar approach was adopted in England there is no reason why local authorities should not be able to get close to the 70% figure. However it will take investment in services and better joint working across the industry to hit these high levels in the future. The first step needs to be a re engagement in waste policy by the Government with support mechanism to help local authorities meet the 50% target."
LARAC believes that funding streams will be vital to any increases given the overall budget reductions in local authority funding. Without specific waste and recycling funding a 70% will remain an aspiration rather than a reality.
LARAC has offered initial support for landfill bans but outlines that they will need careful and considered planning. If alternative treatment routes are not available than a ban is pointless. The point of responsibility needs to be carefully thought through as well, LARAC indicating that the burden should not fall on the public sector without clear justification.
