ADEPT comment – publication of Defra's response to the DRS consultation
The Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT) has provided comment on the publication of Defra's response to the DRS consultation.
Steve Palfrey, Chair of ADEPT's Waste Board said: “ADEPT welcomes the publication of Defra’s response to the DRS consultation as providing clarity on another piece of the jigsaw of government waste policy. However, the continuing lack of clarity on government requirements, timetable and funding for consistency in recycling services still leaves councils and the waste sector unable to take any decisions about new investment and reforming services.
“Today’s response demonstrates there is public support for a Deposit Return Scheme, but ADEPT considers the decision not to pursue a ‘digital DRS’ based on returning containers through the kerbside recycling system is a missed opportunity to maximise convenience for residents and avoid the huge unnecessary additional expense of providing reverse vending systems at retail premises.
“It is great to see that Defra is pressing ahead with its much-needed plans to reform the waste system. But we’re 18 months on from the Consistency Consultation and no clearer on the role that council services to every household are expected to play, how change will be funded or whether the overall system will work effectively to support the shift to a more circular economy.
“We are also still waiting for the revised Waste Prevention Plan which is another vital piece of the jigsaw in driving change. We have high hopes, and urge Defra to provide clarity and certainty as a matter of urgency”.