The Welsh Government has published new plans to “take the next steps” on its journey towards becoming a zero waste, net zero carbon country that uses a “fair share” of natural resources.
The country is consulting on proposals that aim to see Wales move towards zero waste by 2050; scrutinise how it uses resources; encourage the reuse, repair and remanufacture products and materials; maximise the economic and social opportunities of a more circular economy.
The Welsh Government has published Beyond Recycling which aims to move Wales towards a circular economy – keeping resources in use for as long as possible and avoiding waste.
We’re on a journey towards becoming a circular economy where waste is avoided and resources are kept in use as long as possible
“The aim is not only to reach zero waste by 2050, but also to take action on the Climate Emergency and seize the economic opportunities to create a greener, more equal and more prosperous Wales,” the Welsh Government said.
Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hannah Blythyn, also announced an additional £6.5 million in circular economy funding for local authorities and other publicly funded bodies alongside the consultation.
“Wales is already leading the way in the UK when it comes to recycling,” she said, “but I want us to go further and take the next step. We’re on a journey towards becoming a circular economy where waste is avoided and resources are kept in use as long as possible.”
Beyond Recycling ambitious
- become the world leader in recycling
- phase out single use plastic
- invest in clean technology for materials collection
- make more efficient use of our food
- prioritise the purchasing of wood, remanufactured and recycled content
- enable communities to take collective action
- create the conditions for business to seize the opportunities
- take full responsibility for our waste
“It is your engagement and action we need now – you are the recyclers, you are the groups working to improve your communities, you are the businesses finding new uses for materials that were once sent to landfill,” the Deputy Minister said.
“We want a dialogue, it is your chance to let us know what you think about our proposals and to come up with new ideas and activities. We will be holding events online and in communities across Wales, and there are resources to help you come together and respond.
“I want to hear from as many people and organisations as possible. Our collective responses can make a big difference”.
For more on the consultation, click here.