Press Release
For immediate release
CIWM Responds to Circular Economy Strategy Delay Until 2026
CIWM has issued a response after the Environment Secretary confirmed this week that the UK Government's Circular Economy Strategy, initially expected for publication in October, has been delayed until 2026. The postponement was further confirmed by Emma Reynolds, Minister of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), during an appearance before the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee.
Dan Cooke, Director of Policy, Communications and External Affairs, said: “Whilst it’s no surprise that a new Secretary of State wishes to review and sharpen any emerging Government strategy, the delay of the long-awaited Circular Economy Growth Plan is still disappointing. We look forward to clarification as soon as possible on the release schedule, along with the sector roadmaps.
It’s also important that we get clarity on the proposed production of a clear roadmap for the UK resources and waste sector itself. This sector's services provide the bedrock for a more circular economy, and key metrics such as the UK's recycling rate, resource productivity, residual waste per person, number of illegal waste sites and illegal tipping incidents, etc, are KPIs for a more resource-efficient, resilient and circular economy.
We also know that our sector’s services are a vital facilitator of thriving local economies, growth, and community well-being. The sector is continuing to respond and adapt to the significant regulatory changes arising from the previous Resources and Waste Strategy and now being implemented by the UK Government, and we welcome this progress.
We look forward to a confirmed release date for the Circular Economy Growth Plan and its roadmaps early in 2026, to ensure the resources and waste sector continues to strongly and demonstrably contribute to the opportunities for UK growth and resilience."
ENDS
Notes to Editors
About CIWM:
CIWM (the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) is the leading professional body for the resource and waste management sector representing over 7,000 individuals in the UK, Ireland and overseas. Established in 1898 - and now in its 125th year - 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:
Kacie Foskett
T: +44 (0) 1604 620426
E: kacie.foskett@ciwm.co.uk