Scotland gears up for recycling legislation

Scotland – Scotland is currently paying £95 million (US$ 148 million) in landfill taxes to throw away recyclates like metals, plastics, glass and cardboard – all of which themselves have a value of £97 million (US$ 151 million). But a nationwide campaign has been launched this week to remind all businesses that the status quo will change once recycling becomes a requirement under the Waste Scotland Regulations, scheduled to be enforced next January.

From the start of 2014, all companies will be obligated by law to recycle their material or risk a hefty fine. Luckily, ‘a growing number of organisations’ across the country are already gearing up for the requirement to recycle, says Iain Gulland, director of Zero Waste Scotland.

‘The regulations are designed to enable organisations to further reduce waste, enable the recycling of quality materials, and be more resource efficient – all offering the potential for cost savings and wider economic opportunities,’ he states.

The government-funded programme Resource Efficient Scotland will provide free advice on energy and materials efficiency, among other things. ‘We have a range of support available to help over the coming months and would ask those needing help to get in touch,’ stresses Gulland.

For more information, visit: www.zerowastescotland.org.uk

and www.resourceefficientscotland.com