Member considered the report which provided an outline of the requirements of the England and Wales Waste Regulations 2011 (as Amended 2012), promoting high quality recycling.  It summarised the methodology of the Waste Regulatory route map which had been accepted by the Environment Agency as an acceptable assessment to demonstrate compliance.  An Independent Consultant had been engaged to undertake the assessment, and their findings were summarised together with conclusions reached.  The conclusion reached was that, on the basis that the recommended actions, as outlined in the report, were implemented, the Council did not need to collect paper, card and plastic separately in order to promote high quality recycling.  Members noted and considered the relevant minute and the recommendations received from the Local Planning & Environment Advisory Committee who had considered the same report.

The Portfolio Holder for Local Planning & Environment explained that it was a question of quality not volume, and was good news that there were few actions to implement to be compliant.

The Chief Officer Environmental & Operational Services drew Members attention to the list of recommended actions within the report.  He further advised that it would soon be possible to recycle different types of plastics in the clear sacks, including tetra packs, due to a new plastic recycling facility that had opened in Rochester.  There would be a communications campaign, funded by the Kent Resource Partnership, to promote this and help in educating what could go in the clear sacks for recycling.  The assessment will be forwarded to the Environment Agency in the New Year to demonstrate compliance with the Regulations.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved:  That, on the basis that if the recommended actions identified in the report were implemented, there was good evidence that the Council did not need to collect paper, card and plastic separately in order to promote high quality recycling.