Waste prevention scheme to save businesses ‘billions’

The Government has launched a new initiative to help businesses save “billions of pounds” by preventing waste. The Waste Prevention Programme for England sets out ways in which firms and […]

The Government has launched a new initiative to help businesses save “billions of pounds” by preventing waste.

The Waste Prevention Programme for England sets out ways in which firms and householders can make financial savings while benefiting the environment.

According to DEFRA, research has shown firms can save £18 billion and cut 16 million tonnes of carbon emissions every year through better waste management while householders could also save £1 billion annually.

A new £800,000 Community Partnership Fund will be made available to help local authorities and businesses take action on waste prevention as part of the programme. A Sustainable Electrical Action Plan will also be developed to encourage firms to design products that last longer.

Resource Management Minister Dan Rogerson said: “Preventing waste from being produced in the first place is not only good for the environment but for the economy and household budgets too.

“That’s why we are making it easier for people to find out where they can get things repaired or pass on things they no longer use. Everyone has a role to play in reducing waste and I want to see businesses helping consumers and the environment by designing products to last longer and using resources better.”

A new report last month revealed retailers smashed their targets for reducing supply chain and packaging waste last year but household waste targets were missed.

Latest Podcast