Speaking at the Environmental Industries Commission’s summer ministerial reception at the House of Lords today (July 3), Lord Taylor called for greater action on both and highlighted the important role of industry in making a green economy a reality.

“The environmental industries are the key to this transition, not just for the innovative processes, which you can provide but also in how you can support other sectors in the way you act,” he told attendees.

Lord Taylor said that Defra was already moving on a number of fronts to stimulate a green economy and that good progress was being made.

He pointed to Defra’s anaerobic digestion strategy and action plan annual progress report, published today, which showed that 21 of the 56 action points have been completed while most of the remaining actions will be completed this year.

He also said that the department would be issuing an informal consultation shortly to restrict wood waste going to landfill.

“Our aim is to divert this waste to better uses higher up the waste hierarchy,” he said. “I think many of you will know the implications of this and recognise this as being an important development.”

Looking at other recent developments, he pointed to the launch last week of WRAP’s hospitality and food service agreement and said: “It’s a good example of a sector that you wouldn’t normally think of being part of the green economy, recognising the benefits of actually adopting green economy models.”

Lord Taylor also cited the increase in funding given to the waste prevention loan fund, which he said would help support businesses, local authorities and civil society groups to innovate and move towards a green economy.

“I believe, and I am sure that this is a belief shared by everyone in this room, that the green economy is essential for a sound, economic future and we’ll have to work together to ensure that transition happens.”

Nick Warburton

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe