June 2015
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Delegates at this conference considered the next steps for waste minimisation and the potential benefits and challenges of moving towards a circular economy in Wales.
It was scheduled as the National Assembly debated the Environment (Wales) Bill, which contained reforms to waste regulations and restrictions. The seminar followed the WRAP-commissioned report that argued that a circular economy could result in cost savings up to £2 billion per year, and was a timely opportunity to discuss the findings of the Assembly's Environment and Sustainability Committee inquiry into recycling, released in December 2014.
Delegates discussed next steps taken to ensure Wales meets the Welsh Government target of becoming a 'zero waste economy' by 2050, including the reforms outlined in the Environmental Bill and proposals to develop a Landfill Disposals Tax to replace current UK Landfill Tax in Wales, scheduled to be implemented in 2018. They also considered the areas that need to be addressed to deliver improved resource efficiency and a circular economy including: design and manufacturing for repurpose, advancement of technology, investment in recycling and treatment facilities and services - as well as the need for cooperation and change of perceptions across businesses, local authorities and the general public. Sessions also considered the impact of EU policy on Wales, following the withdrawal and re-tabling of the European Commission's circular economy programme, and new proposals to create a more ambitious and wider focused package, scheduled to be introduced in 2015.
Delegates included Welsh Government officials and regulators in Wales, local authorities, trade unions, environmental and health organisations, energy businesses, academics, charities and other interested parties.
