ESA Welcomes Call for Evidence on Tackling Single-use Plastics

The Environmental Services Association (ESA), the voice for the UK’s resource and waste management industry, today welcomed the launch of the call for evidence on tax measures to reduce single-use plastics.

ESA’s Executive Director Jacob Hayler said: “The Chancellor today has rightly recognised the scourge of single-use plastics which not only blights our natural environment through littering, but in many cases presents challenges for recycling. ESA has long called for the Government to strengthen producer responsibility to ensure that those who place products and packaging on the market also take greater responsibility for recapturing those materials at the end of their use. Higher taxes or charges for virgin plastics could be part of an overall system which drives the right behaviours across the supply chain by boosting demand for recycled alternatives.

“The call for evidence launched today by the Chancellor in the Spring Statement is therefore highly welcome. It is a strong first step and shows that the Government is taking this issue seriously. We look forward to making our recommendations to the Treasury.”