Further departmental budgets will impact on the waste and resource management sector, warns CIWM

24 July 2015

Although they were expected, CIWM has expressed concern about the Chancellor's announcement yesterday of further budget cuts of up to 40% to unprotected government departments and the impact these could have on the waste and resource management industry.

"It is disappointing given the positive messages from Resource Minister Rory Stewart that the government isn't providing more leadership and action to protect society and the environment, ensure sustainable economic growth and prosperity, and tackle the issue of climate change," says CIWM deputy chief executive Chris Murphy. Far from being the 'greenest government ever', it seems intent on pulling the rug out from under renewable energy and stripping further resource out of Defra and potentially BIS just at a time when robust resource efficiency and security policy is needed to underpin future UK economic growth and competitiveness.

"The Chancellor appears to be blind to the damage these signals will cause to investor confidence in the UK's dynamic and fast growing 'green economy' market sectors. Furthermore, in maintaining a punishing austerity agenda for local government, he threatens some of the most basic frontline services, such as recycling, that allow householders to play their part in meeting these big future challenges."

The CIWM Journal story on the Spending Review announcement can be found here.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) is the leading professional body for the waste management sector representing over 6000 individuals in the UK and overseas. Established in 1898, CIWM is a non profit-making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers. CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues. Comprehensive information about CIWM can be found at www.ciwm.co.uk

Press contact:
Pat Jennings
Head of Policy & Communications
Tel: 01604 620426
Mob: 07912 228260
E-mail: pat.jennings@ciwm.co.uk