Actions recommended ahead of recycling deadline
cardboard boxes with recycle symbol in a beautiful meadow
Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid has contributed a consultation on the code of practice for the ‘Separate Collection of Waste Materials for Recycling’.
The Welsh Government released the code of practice in November 2022, detailing what should be expected of businesses and their recycling processes.
From 31 October 2023, the code of practice will become part of Welsh law, affecting every business operating in Wales. Businesses will need to align their practices with the new legislation or they could face fines of up to £500.
The Chamber has submitted a full consultation on the code of practice to the Welsh Government, after hosting roundtables with businesses from the construction, hospitality, manufacturing, professional service and waste management sectors.
The Chamber’s consultation includes recommendations regarding clarity, communication, compliance, costs and enforcement of the code, as well as highlighting infrastructure and business culture needs.
Oliver Carpenter, Policy Executive at Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “The code is strong in principle and is a step in the right direction for the Welsh private sector as we drive towards net zero.
“However, the code lacks clarification on some issues and sector specific concerns which we have laid out, along with our recommendations for action, in our consultation. These alterations are required to make it possible for firms to flourish in Wales within a net zero ecosystem.
“The Welsh private sector plays a vital role in driving a sustainable and efficient transition to net zero and this code needs to work alongside business if it is to succeed.”