ADEPT calls for government action on resources and waste to support a circular economy
The Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT) has called on the new government to equip local authorities with the tools and resources needed to drive sustainable waste management and create a circular economy.
The Resources and Waste Policy Position paper, launched at the ADEPT Autumn Conference last week, outlines ADEPT’s vision for a more joined up policy landscape, focusing on driving sustainable production, tackling consumption and improving resource recovery to reduce the impacts of waste on the environment.
The policy paper emphasises that local government has a proven track record of delivering cost effective waste services, but warns that continued underfunding will undermine progress toward a zero waste future.
Ann Carruthers, President of ADEPT, said: "Local authorities are on the frontline of waste management. We share the government’s zero waste economy ambitions and are uniquely well placed to advise on where the gaps are in policy and funding that are thwarting this.
“Our policy position paper sets out the actions needed to build a zero waste, circular economy that supports green jobs, reduces carbon and protects the environment.
“Local authorities have an essential part to play in delivering the government’s ambitions, and we need the certainty and resources to enable us to do so. A consistent and fair application of the 'polluter pays' principle across key waste streams will incentivise circular thinking and stimulate the investment needed to improve resource productivity and improve local waste services and infrastructure."
The ADEPT Resources and Waste Policy Position paper is available here: www.adeptnet.org.uk/documents/resources-and-waste-full-policy-position-2024
The summary document is available here: www.adeptnet.org.uk/documents/priority-recycling-and-waste-asks
