Circular economy now: Labour must equip local authorities with necessary resources
The Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport wants to see dedicated tools developed and distributed among councils.
Launched by the Association at its Autumn Conference late-November, the Resources and Waste Policy Position paper calls for a more joined up policy landscape. A focus on driving sustainable production, reducing consumption, and improving resource recovery provision should also be prioritised.
According to the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport [ADEPT], local government already has a proven track record for delivering cost effective waste services. However, underfunding jeopardises progress towards a zero waste future.
‘Local authorities are on the frontline of waste management. We share the government’s zero waste economy ambitions and are uniquely well placed to advise on where the gaps are in policy and funding that are thwarting this,’ said Ann Carruthers, ADEPT’s President. ‘Our policy position paper sets out the actions needed to build a zero waste, circular economy that supports green jobs, reduces carbon and protects the environment.
‘Local authorities have an essential part to play in delivering the government’s ambitions, and we need the certainty and resources to enable us to do so,’ she continued. ‘A consistent and fair application of the ‘polluter pays’ principle across key waste streams will incentivise circular thinking and stimulate the investment needed to improve resource productivity and improve local waste services and infrastructure.’
You can read the full ADEPT Resource and Waste Policy Position paper here.
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