In an open letter to Mary Creagh, LARAC chair Cathy Cook raised the organisation’s concerns on policies developed under the Conservatives, most notably Collection and Packaging Reforms (CPR), but also those announced by Defra due to take shape in the next few years.
The letter read that the lack of updates to the sector risks creating “uncertainty and potential challenges for local authorities”.
The Committee has called for the following:
- Clarification on the definition of “efficient and effective” processes for local authorities to comply with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
At present, LARAC said that local authorities are in an “impossible position”, regarding what is required of them in terms of performance, how this will be measured and the exact funding available in order for them to meet requirements.
- Flexibility on residual waste collections
The guidance released recommending fortnightly residual waste collections “should be reconsidered”, said Cook in the open letter. “LARAC would like to see all local authorities given the freedom to shape services in such a way that encourages residents to prioritise recycling over residual disposal.
- Greater enforcement powers for local authorities across UK nations
Cook then went on to extend LARAC’s support to the government in these goals, ensuring “engagement and input” from local authorities.
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