UK’s green policies: Understanding delays and challenges

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) formulator, Thomas Lindquist, has expressed concerns over the UK’s green policy approaches to waste and recycling, citing delays and industry challenges

The UK government recently announced a one-year delay in implementing extended producer responsibility (EPR) fees, causing relief among industry voices.

UK green policies: An overview

Thomas Lindquist, the pioneer of EPR, suggests that getting it right will take a lot of work due to the UK’s unique organisational structure and lack of industry incentives, such as clean growth.

Requirements and laws for environmental change

Lindquist believes the UK missed an opportunity to demonstrate strong leadership and commitment to recycling by delaying EPR. Producers, who had lobbied for the delay, should find common ground with potential opponents to move forward effectively.

Lindquist argues that more prominent companies may be okay with the policy, but the true challenge lies in formulating requirements and laws for real change for green policies.

Recycling sector: Erosion of progress

Ecoveritas CEO Irvin Newbitt expresses concern that the delay erodes five years of progress and engagement with the recycling sector. To tackle packaging waste effectively, he calls for government, industry, and councils to collaborate on a full EPR implementation from 2025.

The delay erodes five years of progress and engagement with the recycling sector

Embracing change and supporting progressive policies will be crucial for businesses and political parties to succeed in the revolution of green policies.

The importance of navigating green policies within the UK

As the UK navigates its green policies, Lindquist emphasises the importance of finding allies and understanding potential opponents.

By formulating practical requirements and standards, the country can slowly bring about real change in waste management. Newbitt reiterates the mission to advocate for progressive change and urges cooperation between the government, industry, and councils to ensure successful EPR implementation.

Embracing the challenges and opportunities of green policies will lead to a future of higher recycling rates and a cleaner environment for all.