Food producers’ warnings prompt UK to postpone £1.7bn recycling scheme

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The implementation of a new £1.7bn annual recycling scheme in the UK has been delayed until after the next general election. This decision comes as a response to concerns raised by manufacturers about the potential increase in food and drink prices. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs announced on Tuesday that the extended producer responsibility for packaging scheme will now be implemented in 2025, instead of the original date of 2024. Under the scheme, companies would be held accountable for the costs associated with collecting, sorting, recycling, and disposing of packaging waste.

This delay is the latest example of the government pushing back its environmental policies. Other delayed initiatives include a biomass strategy, changes to the planning system for onshore wind farms, and the introduction of a deposit return scheme for bottles. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hinted at a potential softening of the government’s green policies in an effort to differentiate the Conservative party from Labour on environmental issues ahead of the upcoming general election.

While environmental groups expressed concerns about the delay, retailers, manufacturers, and food producers welcomed the postponement. They argued that the scheme could further burden households with higher bills amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis. Andrew Opie, the director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium, supported the government’s decision, stating that the EPR would only increase food prices without achieving desired recycling improvements. Karen Betts, the CEO of the Food and Drink Federation, described the delay as a “bold decision” that allows for reassessment.

However, critics in the packaging and waste management sectors criticized the delay. Adam Read, the chief external affairs and sustainability officer at Suez, warned that the indecisiveness of the UK government was causing significant challenges. He emphasized that the current EPR framework presents an opportunity for industry investment in services and infrastructure, but constant delays hinder progress. Lucas van der Schalk, the CEO of plastics group Corplex, highlighted the widening gap between the EU and UK in recycling approaches, with other European countries successfully implementing effective deposit return schemes. He expressed concern about the burden on the public, businesses, and the environment due to the UK falling behind.

The Department of Environment stated that work is ongoing to deliver the EPR scheme. They are actively engaging with manufacturers, retailers, and packaging companies to develop the design and timeline. Full details will be provided in the near future.