BPF responds to London Assembly Waste Management Consultation

The British Plastics Federation (BPF) has responded to the London Assembly Waste Management Consultation calling for consistent collections and more communication to encourage plastic recycling. The BPF also recommended that London takes into consideration future developments in technology as part of its plan.

The BPF’s response detailed the support there has been from the plastic’s industry in reducing the weight of packaging but suggested caution not to undermine the benefits packaging brings in terms of product protection and loss.

BPF pointed out that insufficient thought is given to repair when durable goods are designs but felt this is an area which should be led by major brands and producers. It cited the biggest issue as consumer behaviour and that business to business reuse has been delivered successfully.

The BPF stated they would like to see more consistent collections in London using a similar model to Wales to help drive up plastic recycling. Where collection schemes exist further consumer communication is needed to change behaviour to recycle more and also to improve the quality of material presented.  With chemical recycling technology emerging this provides an opportunity to recycle all plastic using a combination of this new technology and traditional mechanical recycling.

The BPF also used this consultation as an opportunity to recommend the Mayor has policies to ensure there is the appropriate infrastructure in place to address on the go consumption and optimise recycling from this as well as reducing the likelihood of litter.