John Griffiths, Wales’ Minister for the Environment, today (10 July) announced the publication of the long-awaited Welsh Government Collections, Infrastructure and Markets Sector (CIMS) Plan.
Speaking at the Wales launch of the Resource Association, Mr Griffiths commented: “We too want a resource-efficient material economy that realises value, recognises quality and seeks to maintain the integrity of the secondary materials that are too commonly treated as waste.”
The CIMS Plan sets out how the Welsh government can best support regulators, reprocessors and local authorities in delivering the ‘most effective, efficient and sustainable collection systems for recycling’.
“This plan requires the waste industry in Wales to turn itself into a resource management industry. My vision is that this industry will be recognised as world-class in its ability to deliver a sustainable service which is respected the world over. I want Wales to be attractive to inward investment and, at the same time, be able to retain its home-grown industries on account of the high quality, sustainable, resource management services that will be on offer”, said Griffiths.
Delegates from all sectors of the waste resources industry in Wales heard Mr Griffiths welcome the RA’s involvement. The Minister also stated: “The Association shows forward thinking with its vision and mission statement, which are closely aligned with the aims and objectives of Towards Zero Waste strategy.”
Resource Association’s Chief Executive, Ray Georgeson, said: “We are delighted that Mr Griffiths has joined us today to launch the CIMS Plan and to restate his commitment to a resource-focused approach for Welsh waste and recycling strategy. With their ambitious targets and clear approach, the Welsh Government are sending a powerful signal to the industry that Wales is a place for reprocessors and recyclers to do business as part of the growth of the green economy that we all need.”
Georgeson added: “The Resource Association looks forward to playing a full role in shaping the resources based economy for Wales and working with all parts of the recycling supply chain in Wales.”
The CIMS Plan can be found on the Welsh government website.
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.