Responding to the Government’s proposals to increase
plastic recycling, including a deposit scheme for plastic
bottles, Cllr Martin Tett, Local Government Association
Environment spokesman, said:
“This is a hugely positive step by the Government and has
the potential to revolutionise how we recycle. It is particularly
encouraging that the Government has recognised the LGA’s previous
calls and the responsibility that producers have in mitigating
the impact of plastic on the environment.
“We’ve long called for industry to get around the table
with us to reduce the amount of unrecyclable material in
packaging, and prevent it from entering the environment in the
first place. We encourage them to take the opportunity of this
consultation to do so.
“If these proposals are to be a success, it’s essential
that they work alongside kerbside recycling and are not seen as
an alternative to it. The forthcoming consultation should ensure
that these new proposals do not impact on local recycling.
“With various pressures affecting kerbside recycling, from
China’s recent decision to not take waste from this country to
funding pressures affecting all of local government, this
consultation is an opportunity to renew our relationship with
recycling and ensure kerbside collections are put on a firm
financial footing.”
