Through its resources and waste strategy, the Government as set a target that 65% of all waste produced is recycled by 2035.
This will require huge changes to how we dispose of, collect and manage our waste in Gloucestershire. Waste management is a key area of opportunity to increase sustainability and reduce our impact on climate change. From reduction to re-use and recycling, the production and management of waste if managed well can have significant positive effects on carbon reduction, environmental and health outcomes.
Food waste can be collected separately, anaerobically digested by bacteria to produce fertilisers, and the gas created captured and used for energy. Garden waste can be composted; and dry recycling processes can be improved and expanded. All of these processes will help to improve recycling rates in the county.
The collection of waste, and the Heavy Goods Vehicles involved, can also represent a large part of a council’s own footprint. Alternative technologies such as electric HGVs, and hydrogen collection vehicles are progressing rapidly but will require significant planning, infrastructure and investment.
Reduction of waste will have an even larger effect on reducing climate impact, and all should consider how we package and consume products. Re-using items is also a vital part of the waste hierarchy and initiatives such as repair cafes and shops, and ‘libraries of things’ help people to reuse.