The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management said the next government has a “golden opportunity” to fast-track net zero by creating a more resource-efficient and circular economy.
The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) said that embracing sustainable innovation will drive economic growth and position the UK as a global leader in the fight against climate change.
Irrespective of the outcome of the election, CIWM said improved collaboration between government, sector bodies and business can create green jobs, enhance skills, and boost social mobility.
The Institution has urged the incoming government to prioritise four key areas to achieve these benefits.
CIWM said the government should prioritise resource efficiency across government. It should also deliver on the recommendations in the Skidmore review, focusing on:
- Long-term policy certainty.
- Increased focus in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on materials and the circular economy.
- Streamline processes across planning, environmental permitting and grid access.
- Foster and attract investment in Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage.
- “Swifter and more ambitious policy” and its delivery on all aspects of the resources & waste strategy.
- Greater support for SMEs to reach net zero.
The Institution said improved collaboration is needed to accelerate the rate of infrastructure delivery needed to achieve demonstrable circularity in resources.
CIWM also said the next government should align fiscal policy with resource efficiency and circular economy principles to ensure designers and manufacturers are economically influenced to consider material reuse.
Finally, CIWM called on the incoming government to continue the work of the Green Jobs Delivery Group specifically for Green Skills and to adopt the recommendations of the Skills Commissions Skills 2030 report.
The Institution also called for the next government to diversify the full Apprenticeship Levy’s use across a broader range of training and qualifications, and increase access to lifelong learning through funded provision that meets the needs of employers.
CIWM said it, and its network of 7,000 skilled professionals, will support the government in delivering the science, technology, data and strategies needed to effectively deliver this transition and further our progress to a world beyond waste.
