CIWM has responded to the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) confirming it has delayed the mandatory collection of plastic films and flexible packaging in England until 1 April 2030.

Commenting on the announcement, Dan Cooke, CIWM's Director of Policy, Communications and External Affairs, said:

'The decision to delay the introduction of mandatory collections of difficult-to-recycle films and flexible plastics seems pragmatic and reflects market realities. It should give clarity and breathing space to local authority service providers – whilst they are also dealing with the implications of local government reform - and to the wider sector.

‘It is important that government and sector operators and stakeholders now work collaboratively to identify economically, socially, and environmentally beneficial solutions for this fossil-fuel packaging. This may include phasing out non-critical use wherever possible, material substitution to biogenic material (where feasible) and enabling realistic recycling options.

‘The announcement of delay also reflects the lack of clarity on strategic direction and policy framework that our essential sector faces, including ongoing delays on a Circular Economy Growth Plan and associated material roadmaps, including plastics. CIWM will shortly be publishing important research findings on investment barriers and opportunities for repair, reuse and recycling, which will provide additional evidence and practical recommendations to drive increases in UK recycling and resource efficiency.’

For more information, please visit the full article on Circular Online.