Strategies for local authorities to achieve the EU 2020 50% recycling, reuse and composting target: A case study of England

The revised Waste Framework Directive requires EU Member States to recycle 50% of their household waste by 2020. This study of 48 English authorities from five regions, between 2008/09 and 2012/13, analysed whether the national 50% target was likely to be achieved by 2020 and also investigated the main barriers and possible solutions for local authorities to attain 50% recycling.

This study identified that England is unlikely to meet the EU target to reuse, recycle and compost 50% of its household waste by 2020. Key issues included central Government support and guidance, and difference in collection systems by high and low rate local authorities.

Key recommendations including structural changes to the collection service including alternate weekly collection for dry recyclate and garden waste with a separate weekly collection of food waste, are suggested. Discussion on suggested amendments to the system of measurement are also included.