New Defra Minister praises the work and value of the UK waste and resource management industry

30 June 2015

Speaking to the waste and resource management industry for the first time last week, the new Defra Minister for resource management Rory Stewart MP emphasised the value of the sector and offered his thanks for the important work that it does. Recounting his experience in Afghanistan of the adverse effects that poor waste management can have on a community, he observed that it impacts directly on health, amenity, commerce and jobs.

In a Keynote Address that spanned the sector's rapid progress over the last two decades, its ability to innovate, the important issue of waste crime and some of the current recycling market challenges, the Minister expressed a strong desire to engage with and learn from professionals and organisations in the sector. He said Defra are working closely with a range of stakeholders on the EU Circular Economy and welcomed any further feedback, emphasising that it is essential that whatever emerges from the current round of consultations must meet the needs of the UK waste and resource management industry. He also spoke passionately about the potential for the UK to be a leader in this field and export its expertise across the globe.

Steve Lee, chief executive of CIWM, said:
"We were delighted that the Minister joined us at such an early stage in his ministerial role, and we welcome the clear sense of interest and engagement that came across in his address. He left the audience in no doubt that we should aspire to be world leaders in what we do and he left an open invitation to the industry to work alongside him and his department to achieve this."

A video clip from the Minister's address can be found HERE

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) is the leading professional body for the waste management sector representing over 6000 individuals in the UK and overseas. Established in 1898, CIWM is a non profit-making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers. CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues. Comprehensive information about CIWM can be found at www.ciwm.co.uk

Press contact:
Pat Jennings
Head of Policy & Communications
Tel: 01604 620426
Mob: 07912 228260

E-mail: pat.jennings@ciwm.co.uk