My View: Reducing Plastic Waste and The Big Plastic Count Campaign

Thanks to everyone who got in touch with me about action to tackle plastic waste. I know this is a real issue, so I wanted to outline my thoughts on the matter. I share your concerns about how much plastic is thrown away each week. That is why I am so pleased the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has made it one of their key priorities to end a throwaway society and work towards a zero-waste economy.

Plastic, as those who wrote in to me are very likely aware, often does not decompose and can end up as litter in our natural environment. I am proud that our Government has already banned plastic wet wipes as part of its efforts to clean up rivers, lakes and seas. I am also glad that in England, a Deposit Return Scheme for plastic and metal drinks containers will be implemented from October next year.

For plastic waste in particular, I know Defra has set an ambitious 59% recycling target by 2027. This is a substantial increase from 43.8% achieved in 2018. To achieve this, I know the Government has introduced several reforms to the sector. This includes requirements for councils to collect plastic-film from all households and workplaces by March 2027, and a Simpler Recycling scheme for workplaces to standardise collections. Introducing these measures will reduce contamination, making it easier for materials to be recycled. 

In July last year, Defra announced that a further £1 billion would be given to local councils to help improve their recycling schemes. This will help councils ensure that more of today’s rubbish is recycled into tomorrow’s packaging.

Ultimately, recycling is great –and I encourage it wholeheartedly - but it is better if we do not need it in the first place, and if we can reduce the need for recycling. We need to end the throwaway society, and I am proud our Government is working towards a circular economy.

I especially look forward to the publication of the circular economy strategy, which will focus on textiles, transport, construction, agri-food, chemicals and plastics. I know Defra is prioritising this work, and that it will support economic growth, create green jobs, promote efficient use of resources and accelerate the transition to net zero.