News

By Anthony Clark

‘Making the most of our packaging’ is a UK wide strategy that looks at the whole chain from production to disposal of packaging.

The proposals include:

• Enforcement action will be made easier against manufacturers of excess and unnecessary packaging;

• Consumers will be encouraged to continue to report excessive packaging to Trading Standards;

• The Waste and Resources Action Programme (Wrap) will work with manufacturers and retailers to reduce packaging for everyday products in line with the best on the market;

• The recyclability of packaging will be improved and clear guidance will be provided for manufacturers on designing it with recyclability in mind.

Environment, sustainability and housing minister, Jane Davidson, said: “Whenever I talk to people about waste the most regular complaint I hear is about the amount of packaging there is on the goods we buy and use.

“These plans are now being put out to consultation and I call on all people to give their views. We have proposed a 70% target for recycling and composting all waste by 2025. However, we want see the amount of potential waste produced in the first place cut back.”

Liz Goodwin, ceo of Wrap, added: "We need to cut excess packaging whilst recognising that the right packaging can help products last longer and so reduce waste. This is crucial if we are to meet UK targets for keeping waste out of landfill.

“We have a chance for real innovation here – so that, from design to disposal, packaging is the very best it can be – for shoppers and the environment.”

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