DEFRA Resources and Waste Strategy

The long awaited publication of the Resources and Waste Strategy positively builds on the scope and targets set out in the 25 Year Environment Plan, the Clean Growth Strategy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Its eight chapters cover different aspects and major issues with current UK waste management and focus on creating a circular economy and better engagement with the waste hierarchy.

Enva has welcomed the new proposals and targets that prioritise many of the same principles and overarching objectives as us. These include maximising the value of resources and minimising waste and its impact on the environment. We have also been working extensively with the East Midlands Universities Waste Consortium to support and lead on engagement initiatives targeting the reduction of avoidable plastics and waste. Chapter’s 3, 5 and 7, focusing on recycling, food waste and innovation, are where we feel we can continue to make the most difference and help our customers to exceed industry targets.

Although many of the targets are vague and still subject to future consultations, DEFRA has acknowledged that details for many of the schemes and targets are yet to be established so we are hoping that stronger, legally binding targets will arise from the multiple proposed consultations. 

Many references are made to tying in the launch of this strategy with the European Withdrawal Act 2018, and using this as an opportunity to renew and review UK environmental legislation to become a world leader in resource efficiency. We fully support this ambition and are looking forward to working with our customers and the industry to transform attitudes, make the most of this development and the momentum is has caused.

Enva’s Commercial Director Paul Clements has said; “Helping the Universities reduce their waste, reuse it where possible and recycle as much of it as we can is a real passion for Enva, and we’re really excited by the initiatives raised in the Resources and Waste Strategy. It’s reassuring to see that the municipal market is being aligned with the commercial market under the principles of the waste hierarchy. We feel the ‘polluter pays’ mentality will help drive positive behaviour changes with a focus on the waste hierarchy and most importantly, waste minimisation.”