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Email: paul.sanderson@therecyclingassociation.com

Website:www.therecyclingassociation.com

Press release

EMBARGO: TO MATCH DEFRA LAUNCH OF SIMPLER RECYCLER AT 00.01am SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER

Statement from The Recycling Association chief executive Paul Sanderson on launch of Simpler Recycling

Paul Sanderson said: "Simpler Recycling should end the confusion around what can and can't be recycled and we welcome the focus on the dry core materials of paper and card, plastics, metals and glass packaging.

"But it is disappointing that local authorities in England will be able to commingle this material, as we would have preferred paper and cardboard to be kept separate as a minimum. That would have avoided contamination and enabled better quality of paper and cardboard, but also the other materials where paper can act as a contaminant.

"The fact that Simpler Recycling will also apply across households and businesses will make it easier for people, whether at work or at home, to understand what can and can't be recycled. That is a definite positive from Simpler Recycling.

"We would have preferred commercial and household collections under Simpler Recycling to be launched at the same time in 2025 but recognise that a great deal of progress has been made to bring about consistent recycling under these measures. At least now, our industry can start to plan with some certainty.

"On plastic film collections from 2027, we will need to see the detail as it will be essential that these are kept separate from the other core materials.

"We are also pleased that there will be more effort to crack down on rogue operators. Those who move waste illegally bring our entire industry down and it is in all of our interests to remove the criminal element." 

For more information, contact: The Recycling Association chief executive Paul Sanderson on 07970 549 536