Defra launches consultation on packaging waste

Hot on the heels of new EU targets for the recycling of waste from packaging Defra has announced it will be consulting on how to meet these goals.


The EU wants to see member states doing more to cut waste from packaging and last week announced new targets which must be met by most countries by 2008 (see related story).

Those who have joined the EU more recently are being given longer to get their recycling houses in order.

Now Defra is asking business and others involved in the recycling sector how the targets can best be met.

The consultation paper outlines the proposals of the department, the Scottish Executive and the Welsh Assembly on how best to meet the EU requirements as well as laying out aspirations for further improvements to packaging recycling beyond the 2008 targets.

It also suggests ways to simplify the current system and clear up existing confusion.

Those with an interest in the new packaging waste targets, and Defra estimates they will impact on some 11,000 companies and organisations in the UK, have until October 3 to make their voices heard.

The consultation period is being limited to just six weeks, says the department, because it is vital that any changes to targets come into force by 1 January 2006 in order to allow obligated business sufficient time to plan.

A copy of the consultation paper can be found on Defra’s website and responses should be emailed to benjamin.winterton@defra.gsi.gov.uk or posted to Benjamin Winterton at Defra, Producer Responsibility Unit, Room 7/F8, Ashdown House, 123 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6DE.

By Sam Bond

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