The UK Government has announced the establishment of a Circular Economy Taskforce, bringing together experts from across government, industry, academia, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). This initiative aims to fulfil the Labour Party's manifesto commitment to transition towards a circular economy, moving away from the current linear 'take, make, throw' economic model.

The taskforce's primary objective is to develop a new Circular Economy strategy to be delivered over this Parliament and the next, positioning the UK as an international leader in circular design, technology, and industry.

Driving economic growth and sustainability

By embracing a circular transition, the government aims to attract investment into new product manufacturing and processing infrastructure, create highly skilled green jobs in circular product design and development, and help the economy retain more of its critical resources.

Defra has said that the potential impact of such reforms is significant. In the packaging sector alone, existing initiatives have the potential to support 21,000 new jobs and stimulate over £10 billion of investment in recycling capability over the next decade. The government believes that by driving circularity in priority sectors, these benefits can be extended further, promoting both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Taskforce composition and objectives

The Circular Economy Taskforce will comprise up to 15 individuals, including:

• Nine industry representatives and trade associations
• Two NGO representatives
• Two academics
• Two local government representatives

This diverse group will be guided by an independent Chair and Deputy Chair, who will report to a Circular Economy Small Ministerial Group (SMG) comprising ministers from across Government.

The taskforce will be responsible for developing sector-specific roadmaps for reform, focusing on opportunities to support economic growth and accelerate progress towards net zero. These outputs will aim to promote efficient and productive use of resources, minimise negative environmental impacts, and create green jobs.

Scope and approach

The strategy and roadmaps developed by the taskforce will primarily apply to England, except where policy is reserved. However, the government has expressed its intention to maximise a four-government approach where opportunities exist to align with the devolved administrations.

Members will be expected to leverage their collective expertise to advise the Government on delivering a circular economic transition in the UK. They will consider existing research and the current policy landscape while also bringing their own evidence and considering international best practices.

The government is now welcoming expressions of interest to join the Circular Economy Taskforce. The deadline for applications is midnight on Wednesday, 25 September 2024.