Councils must still have the autonomy to run waste services according to local need under new packaging reforms, the Local Government Association (LGA) has said.
The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, which will shift the cost of dealing with waste from councils to producers, is set to be introduced next year after being delayed from 2023.
LGA environment spokesperson Darren Rodwell said: ‘We support reforms for packaging producers taking responsibility for meeting costs and in helping further reduce and recycle packaging waste.’
Cllr Rodwell said it is 'crucial' that councils continue to lead local waste and recycling services.
The LGA also wants to see EPR expanded in future to include items like littering and furniture.
New polling for the association found that 85% of consumers believe companies should be required by the Government to reduce the amount of packaging used.
For more on this, check out our feature: The cost of the EPR delay
