A pilot deposit return scheme (DRS) for plastic bottles has collected 60,000 in four months from reverse vending machines installed in 16 schools.

Key stakeholders from across the packaging supply chain have written to Environment Secretary Michael Gove to outline their priorities for the next stage of delivery of the Resources and Waste Strategy.

Dumped and burned rubbish, especially plastic waste, is responsible for the death of one person every 30 seconds in low-income countries, according to a report from disaster relief charity Tearfund.

186 countries have agreed to put restrictions on the export of plastic waste, after an amendment to the global framework governing the movement of hazardous chemicals and waste was passed on 10 May.

Somerset Waste Partnership has announced SUEZ recycling and recovery UK as the preferred bidder for its new Recycle More contract, which aims to boost the county’s recycling rates.

On-the-go recycling campaigns will be launched in Swansea and Edinburgh after a trailblazing project in Leeds, led by charity Hubbub, has reported strong results.

Drinks containers made from aluminium, steel, glass and PET plastic will now carry a 20 pence deposit in Scotland as part of the Scottish Government’s new deposit return scheme.

A report from the Committee on Climate Change says the UK can reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, but will need to invest in low-carbon energy technologies and implement a ban on biodegradable waste to landfill by 2025.

Until 31 July, the UK Government will be matching public donations up to £2 million to help communities in low-income countries manage their waste.

The Welsh Government has announced its £6.5 million Circular Economy Fund, aiming to drive Wales towards its 2025 recycling target of 70 per cent.