LGA responds to NAO report on packaging recycling obligations

Responding to the National Audit Office’s report on Packaging Recycling Obligations, Cllr Judith Blake, LGA Environment spokesman, said:


“This report highlights the issues councils face when it comes to cracking down on packaging using unrecyclable materials. The best hope we have of reducing the amount of waste heading to landfill is to stop it from entering the environment in the first place – this would make a huge difference to our ability to recycle more efficiently.

“Councils have long called for the packaging industry to get around the table with us to reduce the amount of unrecyclable material that goes into packaging. Manufacturers should take this opportunity and work with us to discuss ways in which we can make packaging more recyclable.

“Local authorities are determined to do all they can to help improve recycling rates, and regularly update residents with information and campaigns to increase the amount of waste that can be recycled. It’s time for the wider industry to follow this lead, contribute more to recycling and waste management, and help us reduce waste at the point of source, to stop unrecyclable material becoming an issue in the first place.”