Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director – Environment, Highways and Community Services.

The Assistant Director Environment, Highways and Community Services submitted a report (previously circulated) which outlined the requirements of the Environment Act 2021 and provided details on the development of the new statutory weekly food waste collection service.

The report included the main requirements of the act which are Food Waste Collection, Simpler Recycling, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Deposit Return Scheme. The report outlined the current household waste management arrangements and what actions the council will need to consider when introducing the weekly food waste collections.

The report explained that from the end of March 2026, local authorities must collect food waste weekly from all residential properties unless transitional arrangements have been agreed.

The report stated that new ‘Simpler Recycling’ collections will be introduced, with the aim to produce standardisation with the same materials: plastic, metal, glass, paper, card, food waste and garden waste (charge to be applied for garden waste) collected from homes, workplaces and schools.

Under EPR it explained that this element of the Act places responsibility onto packaging producers to cover the full net cost of the packaging they place on the market, it was explained that Local Authorities will receive payments from 2025/26 however nothing had been confirmed.

The report described the Deposit Return Scheme and how it will be operational from October 2027, Individuals will be able to return polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, steel and aluminium cans from 150ml to 3l and receive a refund on deposit paid.

The report outlined the current waste management services, data on the 2022/23 collection arrangements and The Waste and Resources Action Programme Charity’s (WRAP) involvement with the Council.

The report enclosed the options which the Council proposes to Members to review and feedback to Cabinet but considering the uncertainty of the financial forecast.

Members discussed the success rates of residents adhering to the new waste management arrangements, whether any communication/education will be given out for the public to follow.

Members discussed the options further, and how Option2 had given concerns to waste management staff due to the particular manual handling style that would be required.

Discussion ensued around finance implications regarding the new waste management arrangements, the uncertainty of the amount of funds that will be obtained from the government.

Members discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the transition from a 240l to a 180l bin, Members wanted to know if Darlington uses a medical waste collection service and the possibility for plans of recycling batteries.

RESOLVED  - That members note the report and that the majority view of this Scrutiny Committee support Option 3 with the recommendation of a 1 year limit supply of bin liners.