Recycling Targets

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Climate Change – in the Senedd at 2:12 pm on 19 October 2022.

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Photo of Julie James Julie James Labour 2:12, 19 October 2022

Yes, certainly, Tom. One of the issues there is, actually, the interaction of the planning system with the recycling system, as it happens. So, we are looking to see what we can do to ensure that that doesn't happen. We're also, as you know, about to go to a target of 70 per cent across Wales, and just in the Swansea area, we have three very high-performing councils, but Bridgend County Borough Council, I have to say, is singled out for a mention as they're at 69 per cent. So, I'm very pleased indeed that they've been able to do that. We are always looking for source-segregated recycling as well, because we're able to attract reprocessors to Wales in increasing numbers, and they bring with them the green jobs that we so badly need. And also, of course, they reduce the need for virgin materials to be used in the manufacturing of various commonly used items. So, one of the things that we are looking to do in getting to that 70 per cent is having more source-segregated recycling picked up by the local authority as part of the rounding. We will be announcing some stuff with that. 

There have been some specific issues that I am aware of, of course, in Swansea; you're aware that my constituency is a third of what you just mentioned there. We will be working with Swansea to make sure that we can redress that situation. There is a small issue around what is classed as waste wood, which I won't bother the Llywydd with as she will be looking at me patting her watch. But, I'm more than happy to have a separate discussion with you about it.