Government consults on packaging landfill ban

The ‘Consultation on the introduction of restrictions on the landfilling of certain wastes’ was launched yesterday by Defra and the Welsh Assembly Government to look at the environmental impact of restricting biodegradable and recyclable waste from landfill.

The consultation asks for views on banning a range of materials from landfill including card and paper, metals, plastics, glass and wood, as well as food waste.

It also looks at how waste infrastructure would need to change to accomodate banning materials.

“The aim is to consult on whether further restrictions on the landfilling of biodegradable and recyclable wastes would make an effective contribution to meeting the objectives of reducing GHG emissions and increasing resource efficiency and in respect of Wales, of decreasing the ecological footprint associated with waste,” Defra said.

A report from Wrap that accompanies the consultation found that paper and card, food, textiles, metals, wood and glass would benefit the most from being banned from landfill. To read the report, click here.

The policy options proposed in the consultation include introducing landfill bans, tougher sorting or pre-treatment requirements or linking producer responsibility systems to recycling targets.

Councillor Gary Porter, chairman of the Local Government Association’s environment board said councils would be watching closely to make sure there was no extra financial burden because of changes to the types of waste councils are responsible for.

“Defra needs to think carefully about where the money to pay for a landfill ban will come from and how the ban will be policed. Councils do not want to be put in a position where they have to fine people for putting their leftovers in the wrong bin.”

The consultation runs until 10 June and more information can be found by clicking here.

Packaging News would like to know your views on this issue. Do you think packaging materials should be banned from landfill? Is there a better way to improve the way the UK deals with packaging and other waste? Leave your comments below.

Click here for today’s headlines from across the packaging industry

Popular Articles