On 18th February it was announced that the government is launching a series of consultations to overhaul the waste system, cut plastic pollution, and move towards a more circular economy.
The new proposals that will see large-scale changes to the way that households, businesses and manufacturers deal with waste. These will include a proposed introduction on new recycling measures to ensure that the system becomes more effective. A new tax is being introduced on the producers of plastic packaging that are not using enough recycled material.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond said:
“This action, coupled with the other measures we are bringing in, will help drive up recycling, cut the amount of new plastic being used and protect our environment for future generations.”