Zero Waste Scotland tells firms to keep recycling

One year since the introduction of the Waste (Scotland) Regulations, Zero Waste Scotland has urged businesses to make sure they continue to comply by separating materials for recycling.


The organisation is also advising businesses to prepare for the next phase of food waste recycling requirements on 1 January 2016 which include any business producing more than 5kg of food waste per week. Regulations currently apply to businesses which produce more than 50kg food waste per week.

Scottish Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “One year on from introduction of our landmark waste regulations, I am delighted that our waste is being increasingly seen as a resource which can bring economic benefit to communities, as well as reducing our environmental impact.

“Our regulations channel food waste that would otherwise end up in landfill into the hands of growing companies like Keenan Recycling, who can convert the material into compost, and create jobs in the process.”

Deliver obligations

Zero Waste Scotland chief executive Iain Gulland said: “Business are already reaping the benefits of the waste regulations… Earlier this year we announced the results of an independent survey which showed that 83% of businesses were aware of the regulations and almost 90% of those were confident that they were compliant.

“There is of course still a challenge for us to reach businesses that could benefit from advice on how they need to implement the regulations. We can help businesses deliver their obligations through our free Resource Efficient Scotland service.

“I would also urge companies to check if their waste contractor has signed up to the voluntary Resource Sector Commitment. By using a contractor which has signed up to the commitment, businesses can be assured that they will be provided with a high quality recycling service which is compliant with the regulations.”

Lois Vallely

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