Recycling rates failure: Only a joined up approach will meet government targets

Reports today state that 16 of Scotland's 32 local authorities are missing the Scottish Government's 40% waste recycling target, including our three largest cities.

The national average is 37.8%, behind England on 39.7% and Wales on 40%.

The SNP had set a target of reaching 40% by 2010, 50% by 2013 and 70% by 2025.

Alex Fergusson MSP, Scottish Conservative Rural Affairs Spokesperson, said:

"This is hugely concerning and suggests at this rate we are unlikely to hit any of the SNP Government's targets for recycling. It is particularly important that large urban areas, with their bigger populations, are recycling as much as possible and this clearly isn't happening.

"The SNP must look at encouraging businesses, retailers and households to minimise the waste they produce. Until we get a joined up approach with a clear strategy for achieving the SNP Government's targets, we will continually fail to meet them."

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