Zero Waste Scotland appoints first chair

Zero Waste Scotland announced today (8 July) the appointment of Vic Emery as its first chair following the organisation's transition to a corporate structure on 1 July.


Emery is currently president of the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce. His history in the public sector includes working as convener of the Scottish Police Services Authority and he is also the chair of the Scottish Police Authority.

“I’m delighted to be appointed the first Chair of Zero Waste Scotland,” said Emery. “This is an organisation with a hugely important mission – achieving more efficient or ‘circular’ use of resources is a must-do for the long-term health of our economy and our environment.

“I’m excited about the future, not least in working with an energetic staff team with some terrific achievements already under their belts. I will work with them to drive progress in Scotland on key issues such as resource efficiency, recycling, litter and the circular economy.”

Zero Waste Scotland split from the UK-based WRAP under plans announced by the Scottish Government in February. The organisation is primarily responsible for leading the delivery of the Scottish Government’s Zero Waste Plan.

Zero Waste Scotland director Iain Gulland said: “I am very pleased to welcome Vic Emery as Zero Waste Scotland’s first chair. I know that Vic will provide proven leadership skills, experience and expertise to take Zero Waste Scotland forward in the years to come.

“As an organisation we have a broader remit than ever before, ranging from recycling to energy efficiency and litter prevention, and having Vic on board will help us to build strong partnerships across the public and private sectors to help us meet our ambitious objectives.”

Zero Waste Scotland’s recent work has included its Resource Efficiency Pledge for Scottish businesses which was announced in April in order to reap an estimated £2.9bn worth of savings, along with a new Carrier Bag Commitment scheme launched last month.

Matt Field

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