For several years now the industry has been crying out for a strategy and some direction from UK Government. Defra, however, seems not to have been in a position to deliver. Ongoing departmental cuts, and a previous lack of ministerial buy-in, have probably contributed to the policy hiatus, which is now holding the industry back. The ongoing huge challenges in recycling markets, and increasing reliance on RDF exports for landfill diversion, are contributing towards a difficult investment climate for UK based waste facilities. Unless action is taken and the industry is given the strategic certainty it needs to invest in the future, we are likely to see performance go backwards as existing assets are not replaced at the end of their lives. The circular economy presents a huge opportunity for us to create jobs and growth and increase the value added to the UK economy from our resources. But it will not happen without a strategy. The devolved administrations are putting strategies in place and we need England to do the same.
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