CIWM would like to use cookies to store information on your computer, to improve our website. One of the cookies we use is essential for parts of the site to operate and has already been set. You may delete and block all cookies from this site, but parts of the site will not work. To find out more about the cookies we use and how to delete them, see our CIWM Privacy Policy.

CIWM
You are here: CIWM  >  Publications  >  Latest News  >  Straight Champions High Recycling Target With Prime Minister

Straight Champions High Recycling Target With Prime Minister

24 June 2011

The Prime Minister, David Cameron, addressed over 100 attendees, including 46 of the UK's leading CEOs at The Energy Summit in London this week, where a radical growth agenda for the UK was debated

A key fact highlighted by attendee, Straight plc, was that the recent Waste Review states exports of waste represent 1/6 of our non fossil-fuel exports, yet only 2 percent of the value.

Jonathan Straight, Chief Executive of Straight plc went on to suggest a revised approach to recycling in England, incorporating a high recycling target could lead to the collection of higher quality material which could then remain in the UK, which, according to Straight, could potentially create 50,000 more jobs, keep vital raw material in local supply chains and reduce CO2 emissions, whereas the current lack of a specific target would simply lead to a drift towards more exports or incineration. Recycling should be seen as a key driver of growth.

The comments were well received by The Prime Minister who stated that he indeed would consider introducing a target. David Cameron continued to speak encouragingly about recycling, leading onto the issue of food waste. He emphasised the point that the food waste caddy is not merely a "slop bucket", but an important and popular recycling container.

Straight said of the Summit: "It is vital that the important issue of recycling and setting higher recycling targets is reviewed and actioned through legislation. The Waste Review says a lot of positive things, but is weak on actual solutions. Whilst it is encouraging the Prime Minister discussed these issues positively, there was no finite answer to the question posed.

"It is crucial that the need for further reform is understood and that the recycling agenda gain momentum and remains an urgent matter. Straight tirelessly pursues the preservation of the environment, and welcomes working with the Government and all other stakeholders to improve the future of recycling."

Darrel Moore