Scotland’s journey to a circular economy continues

When I managed the communication for Scotland’s 2020 Climate Group, there was no doubt that the country was ambitious and indeed meeting, if not exceeding its climate targets. We had a plan to showcase this at COP15 in Paris.

We still have ambitious targets and in some respects, are still leading the way.

Scottish Circular Economy

Two weeks ago, Scotland announced that its deposit return scheme would go live in a year, giving businesses and consumers yet another opportunity to recycle.

The scheme will be the first in the UK and will play an important part in Scotland’s journey to a circular economy.

Estimates by Zero Waste Scotland suggest that the scheme will reduce emissions by an average of nearly 160,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year.

The 20p deposit will also provide an incentive to reduce littering, helping to cut the number of bottles and cans discarded in streets and green spaces.

Recycling responsibly

We’ve all seen Edinburgh and Glasgow in recent days, with the mounds of litter on busy city centre streets, as a result of the strikes, so we can gleam an idea as to how much litter is produced and how much could be recycled.

Circularity Scotland Ltd. is running the scheme, an industry-led body representing drinks producers, retailers and trade bodies of all sizes. SEPA will regulate the scheme and help educate businesses.

Preparation starts now!

Infrastructure for the scheme is now beginning to be rolled out across Scotland. This means businesses have an opportunity to prepare!

Find out more and register with Circularity Scotland to make sure you’re ready!