Local Authority Waste & Recycling Magazine
Issue link: https://fhpublishing.uberflip.com/i/527295
COMMENT 4 Local Authority Waste & Recycling July 2015 We're still in a bit of a Pickle So, Eric Pickles is soon to become Sir Eric. I'm not sure it's how some of you would choose to address the controversial secretary of state at DCLG, but you may not have to now he's been demoted to 'tsar of something much less important than a cabinet position'. Greg Clark is the new man in charge. He seems particularly fond of decentralisation. As the Local Government Chronicle noted, his appointment "sends a clear signal that David Cameron seeks a less confrontational, more constructive partnership with councils". With another five years of belt-tightening on the cards, Clark could be just the "friend" local authorities need. There is little doubt budget cuts have hindered progress on recycling. Almost half the councils quizzed for the CIWM/Ricardo-AEA report earlier this year said their communications budgets had decreased. Given that the media – both local and national – persist in publishing 'shock' stories that, by and large, are not an accurate reflection of the situation, getting the right messages out there will be critical (see pages 10-11). Politicians can both help and hinder in this respect. The current waste policy vacuum (at least in England) remains a concern. Defra, the department responsible for resources, recycling and waste, is currently down to three ministers, with Lord de Mauley gone and no replacement yet. The fact Liz Truss will continue as secretary of state will cheer those producing food more than those taking the leftovers away. Indeed, Defra has been roundly criticised in this sector for taking a back seat. Those of you seeking evidence need look no further than the department's (published but not publicised) policy paper detailing the Coalition's 2010 to 2015 policy on waste and recycling. It reads like Sir Eric's legacy: • "We're working with local councils to "increase the frequency and quality of rubbish collections" • "We've removed centrally imposed recycling targets". This is a critical time for UK and EU waste policy. The European Commission has just kicked off its first consultation as it redrafts a new circular economy package (see pages 6-7). The government – Number 10, as well as the ministers at relevant departments – needs to get involved; it needs to develop a coherent strategy to take to Brussels. In five years' time it might then be more willing to show off the 2015 to 2020 policy paper. David Burrows is a freelance journalist and acting editor of the July issue of LAWR. August and September will be guest edited by Maxine Perella. Keep in touch at LAWR@fav-house.com