New package on recycling becomes law
Page 20
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• From 1 January 1997 all firms which make, fill or sell more than 50 tonnes of packagi ng annually will be obliged to recover and recycle a percentage of the packaging waste for which they have responsibility. This will induce companies which supply packaged products to retailers and consumers.
The relevant body of legislation is the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations. It stems from the demands of the EC Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive.
Affected companies will also be expected to: • Register with the Environment Agency (0171 820 0101) or the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (01786 457700). Far the position in Northern Ireland please contact the Northern Ireland Department of the Environment (01232 540540); • Provide data on packaging passing through the business; • Prove that they have recovered and recycled to the level of their legal obligations; • Pay fees to the agency when they register/re-register. It is also possible for businesses to loin collective schemes, with the collective assuming all the foregoing responsibilities on behalf of its members. One scheme already up and running is VALPAK (tel: 0171 937 1440).
The target set by the Government for packaging waste recovery( is 50% by 2001, with 15% recycled, and affected companies will be expected to show that they are recycling/recovering their appropriate share. This obviously varies according to the type of activity your firm is engaged in. Interim targets of 40% and 8% respectively will be in force by the end of 1998. For further information contact the Department of the Environment (0171 276 4613).
Alternatively ring the Environment Agency or the Scotti sk Envir onment Protection Agency.