We are excited to share the latest news from HM Treasury regarding reforms to the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) that will have a positive impact on the recycling industry. The government aims to encourage investment in chemical recycling and increase the demand for higher-quality recycled plastic. As the leading provider of commercial waste services in Westminster, we are committed to supporting these initiatives and promoting sustainable waste management practices.
The proposed changes will introduce a consultation on the use of a ‘mass balance approach’ for the PPT. This approach calculates the recycled content in packaging made from chemically recycled plastic, allowing it to contribute to the 30% recycled content threshold. By implementing this method, the government aims to incentivise investment in advanced recycling and drive the use of chemically recycled plastics.
What is chemical recycling?
Chemical recycling involves transforming plastic waste by altering its chemical structure, turning it into raw materials suitable for creating new plastics or other plastic products. It goes beyond traditional mechanical recycling, which mainly involves sorting, melting, and shredding plastic items made from a single type of plastic (like a shampoo bottle).
What sets chemical recycling apart is its ability to break down plastic waste at a molecular level, making it possible to recycle products made from a mix of different plastics (such as plastic bags). This is something mechanical recycling can’t achieve.
Mechanical recycling works best for plastic products made from one type of plastic, while chemical recycling allows us to break down products made from various types of plastics. By converting plastics into their chemical building blocks, chemical recycling opens up new recycling possibilities that mechanical methods cannot match.
Not only does chemical recycling divert plastic waste from incineration or landfill, but it also produces higher-quality recycled plastic. This innovative process helps us tackle the challenge of recycling plastics in a more comprehensive and sustainable way.
At Westminster City Council Commercial Waste Services, we believe in the power of collaboration and collective effort to create a sustainable future. We encourage businesses and residents alike to participate in the upcoming consultation to provide valuable feedback on the ‘mass balance approach’ for calculating the proportion of recycled content in chemically recycled plastics.
Our services
We offer a range of waste management services to meet the diverse needs of businesses and residents in Westminster. Here are some of the services we provide:
- General Waste: Proper disposal of non-recyclable waste is crucial to maintain cleanliness and sustainability in our city. Our general waste collection service ensures the responsible removal and management of such waste.
- Bulky Waste: If you’re looking to dispose of large items, but you’re not sure where to start, our quick and eco-friendly service is here to help. Waste management made easy, just for businesses and landlords.
- Glass Recycling: Choose our convenient glass waste collection service to reduce your environmental footprint. We recycle your glass into new products that promote a circular economy and help create a better future for us all.
- Plastic Recycling: As plastic waste continues to be a global concern, we are dedicated to promoting plastic recycling. By participating in our plastic recycling program, you contribute to reducing plastic waste and preserving valuable resources.
- Mixed Recycling: Maximise your waste by turning it into new materials for a sustainable future.
- Paper & Cardboard Recycling: We offer a reliable paper and cardboard recycling service that saves you money and helps make Westminster greener. Our process creates reusable items like Selfridges bags to build a sustainable future.
- Food Waste: We help restaurants and cafes become more sustainable with a closed-loop food waste collection service that converts waste into renewable energy.
To learn more about our services and how you can contribute to a greener Westminster, get in touch here.
Join the conversation and make a difference
We believe that everyone has a role to play in building a sustainable future. By participating in the upcoming consultation on the ‘mass balance approach’ for the Plastic Packaging Tax, you can help shape the direction of recycling policies and contribute to a more environmentally conscious society.
Stay tuned for updates on the launch of the consultation later this year. Together, we can make a positive impact on waste management and promote a circular economy in Westminster.
Remember, taking action starts with small steps. Join us in our mission to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable city.
