Press Statement
6 December 2018

Bioeconomy strategy sets out the ambition but more needed on delivery, says CIWM

Commenting on the Government’s Bioeconomy Strategy, published this week, CIWM has welcomed the ambitious vision but says there is much more to be done to make it a reality.

“The publication of the strategy is an important milestone in itself, marking a long gestation period since the initial consultation in 2016. CIWM welcomes both the Government’s ambition to double the impact of the bioeconomy to £440bn by 2030 and the collaborative approach that has been adopted, which reflects the need for a cross-disciplinary approach to the realising the bioeconomy,” said CIWM’s head of policy and communications Pat Jennings.

“For the resources and waste sector, there is a clear acknowledgement that secondary feedstocks offer up a significant opportunity and recognition that standards, policy and a supportive regulatory landscape can make a positive difference. The commitment to exploring potential for a standard for bio-based and biodegradable plastics is particularly important and one which CIWM and its research partners called for earlier this year in a research report into decision making to eliminate plastic waste. However, this is very much a work in progress and the strategy is light on concrete deliverables and milestones; we look forward to more detail in the promised delivery plan.”

CIWM has also welcomed the announcement of up to £60m of new government research funding into sustainable plastic packaging to be delivered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) through the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (see CIWM news story).

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1.    CIWM is the leading professional body for the resource and waste management sector representing around 5,500 individuals in the UK, Ireland 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. More information 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