The target would apply to household, construction and industrial waste streams, as this is where the minister believes most impact can be achieved. It is one of a series of measures outlined within a proposed new delivery programme for the country’s future waste strategy.

The strategy will also place greater emphasis on strong waste prevention measures and puts forward a prioritised series of actions and interventions in key areas of waste to increase municipal recycling rates to 60% by 2020.

Outlining his plan, the Minister said: “These are very ambitious targets that I am setting. It is right to do so, given the benefits to the environment, the valuable resources locked in waste and the jobs that could be produced. We need to be imaginative and push ourselves to achieve them.”

He added: “We have the capacity – given the character and size of our population – to lead these islands on the disposal of waste and the green agenda.”

The proposals have been put out to public consultation, which will remain open until October 20. The consultation document can be viewed here

Maxine Perella

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