Scotland’s Circular Economy Bill, aimed at enhancing reuse and recycling efforts, has passed its final stages without opposition, despite facing criticism that it grants councils excessive powers to inspect rubbish.
The legislation will enforce compliance with a code of practice on collection and recycling, grant Scottish ministers the authority to set five-year targets, and introduce criminal penalties for householders who breach waste management regulations.
The bill includes several significant measures:
- Civil Penalties for Vehicle Owners: Vehicle keepers will face fines if litter is dropped from their vehicles. Additionally, authorities will have the power to seize vehicles involved in specific waste crimes.
- Restrictions on Unsold Goods Disposal: Powers to limit the disposal of unsold goods and impose charges on single-use items, with beverage cups being the initial target.
- Local Recycling Targets: Inspired by Wales’ success, statutory local recycling targets will be established.
- Support and Investment: Backed by the £70 million Recycling Improvement Fund, the measures will be reinforced with support and investment.
Gillian Martin, Minister for Climate Action, highlighted that the bill, which passed with 116 votes in favour, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote reuse and recycling as the “default choice for Scottish households and businesses.” She emphasised collaboration with local authorities and residents to implement these powers effectively and assured that fines would target “repeat, persistent offenders” rather than accidental mistakes.
However, the bill has faced criticism. Civil rights advocates argue that it grants councils excessive powers to inspect rubbish and impose fines for incorrect bin usage.
The measures in the Circular Economy Bill will give local Councils and the Scottish Government the powers needed to support the sustainable use of resources and cut greenhouse gas emissions
Businesses express concerns over potential additional costs from the single-use item tax. UK Hospitality Scotland, referring to the tax as a ‘latte levy,’ criticised the lack of detail in the legislation and warned of possible cost increases for businesses, drawing parallels to Scotland’s unsuccessful deposit return scheme.
Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UK Hospitality Scotland, voiced the sector’s frustration, stating, “We urgently need the Scottish Government to provide further information on the proposals included in the bill and engage rapidly with the sector.”
Despite criticisms, the Scottish Government maintains that the Circular Economy Bill is a crucial step towards a sustainable and circular economy, emphasising the importance of modern, user-friendly waste services to encourage public participation in environmental conservation efforts.
Minister for Climate Action Gillian Martin said: “The measures in the Circular Economy Bill will give local Councils and the Scottish Government the powers needed to support the sustainable use of resources and cut greenhouse gas emissions.”
