Why Wales holds the answer to waste management

In a recent interview, CIWM President John Quinn praised the robust policy agenda that has been developed in Wales and described how it could provide a working blueprint to the rest of the UK.

John Quinn said "It's hard to beat Wales at the moment in terms of their robust policy agenda and the support to local governments. Having already achieved the EU recycling targets of 50%, the rest of the UK could do well to follow their example.

"The Circular Economy is important to everybody across the globe and we need to move away from an era of economy which is take, make, use and dispose. The world isn't sustainable for that anymore, especially not in the West."

Wales is at the forefront of the Circular Economy thinking, it has a great focus on improving recycling performance through strong policy frameworks and funding support for local government. The progressive attitude of the Welsh Government and public sector generally has resulted in some startling achievements despite the tightened financial measures.

One such example is Biogen's GwyriAD food waste anaerobic digestion (AD) plant near Caenarfon which has become the first in Wales to achieve the Publicly Available Specification PAS 110 status for its biofertiliser.

To celebrate these successes, a number of high-profile industry leaders, including John Quinn, Alun Ffred Jones AM, National Assembly for Wales and Dr Andy Rees, Head of Waste Strategy Branch, Welsh Government will be speaking at the Resource Conference Cymru in Cardiff on 10 March 2015.

To view the full interview with John Quinn visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwzlThIUM0s

To view the Resource Conference Cymru programme visit http://www.ciwmconferences.com/wales/

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) is the pre-eminent institution for resources and waste management and champions the success of individual professionals and organisations working in this industry.

Since 1898, we have led the resource and waste management evolution, promoting excellence and best practice that protects the environment and people and realises the true economic and environmental benefits of effective resource management.

As the industry leader, CIWM supports individuals and organisations by influencing future legislation and policy; leveraging partnerships; producing industry insights; providing advice and training; sharing knowledge and recognising outstanding achievements. These, together with our Chartered qualification, help individuals to develop their careers and ensure organisations are truly resource efficient.

CIWM inspires excellence in resource management.

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