Today (3 September) marks the start of the National Zero Waste Week, an annual event designed to change public attitudes to recycling and waste.
Begun by activist Rachelle Strauss in 2008, this year’s initiative takes inspiration from the idea of ‘One More Thing’. By challenging the public to take small steps towards zero waste, organisers hope to raise awareness of the extra 750,000 tonnes of waste that could be collected if each household in the UK recycled just ‘one more thing’.
Celebrities taking part include Guardian columnist and BBC presenter Alys Fowler, campaigner Peter Tatchell and former Environment Secretary, John Gummer.
Waste-reduction suggestions offered for those looking to take part include:
- Find out what can be recycled at your kerbside and make full use of facilities
- Check your locak bring banks to see what you can recycle locally
- Start a compost heap
- Perhaps you’ve noted batter recycling in your local shop; start using it!
- Take home your recyclables instead of using litter bins when out and about
For more information, including ideas on how to get involved, visit the My Zero Waste website.
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.