On 25th June 2020, British Glass hosted a digital roundtable with a panel of leading figures to discuss the future of UK glass recycling.
The event, attended by over 100 stakeholders from across industry and government, discussed the importance of delivering a recycling system which would optimize glass recycling rates, as well as help the UK meet its broader, long-term sustainability objectives.
Our CEO, Dave Dalton introduced the session by highlighting the importance of discussing the future of glass recycling in the current climate before inviting speakers to discuss their thoughts and opinions.
Firstly, event sponsor Sue Hayman, former Shadow Environment Secretary, provided an overview of the current political landscape with regards to environmental policy, and discussed how the increased public interest around waste and recycling in recent years has impacted on the decisions and policy positions of political stakeholders.
Paul Vanston, CEO of INCPEN, then discussed the need to find an appropriate mix of recycling systems in order to ensure the long-term reliability of UK recycling, with a balance needing to be struck between schemes in order to maximize the volume of recycled materials.
With Dr Andy Rees, Head of Waste strategy for the Welsh Government, providing a brief overview of Wales’ recycling strategy, and discussing the steps the devolved administration had taken in recent years which have led to Wales enjoying the third highest household recycling rate in the world.
The panel of speakers then took questions from the audience with discussion topics including concerns around a Deposit Return Scheme, the role of refillable glass and the future for glass recycling.
Following the event, Dave Dalton commented:
“It’s vital that even in these difficult times we still manage to get all the stakeholders together to discuss the issues around glass recycling.
“This event was the perfect opportunity to do that and highlighted the importance of government engagement to discuss how the glass industry needs to continue to work with the government to ensure the UK develops a future-proof recycling system which avoids damaging socioeconomic and environmental consequences, whilst working towards our common goal of ensuring the highest possible levels of glass recycling.’
To read the full event report along with more information about British Glass’ Recycle it Right campaign and our vision for the future of glass recycling, please visit www.britglass.org.uk/recycle-it-right.
