WRAP Backs Reuse Partnerships to Help Local Authorities Increase Recycling Rates

The UK’s Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) has published new materials aimed at encouraging more partnerships between local authorities, waste management companies and third sector organisations with the intention of reaping the financial, social and environmental benefits of reuse. WRAP explained that its work on initiating action plans has found that partnerships are fundamental to success in establishing more reuse. To help others achieve similar success in increasing reuse, WRAP has published a number of new case studies, including seven video case studies that demonstrate what can be achieved through such partnerships. One example, the Surrey Reuse Network, diverted 660 tonnes of material to reuse, allowing 5000 lower income families to gain access to free or more affordable goods; and, the Leeds Furniture Reuse Group diverted 7000 pieces of furniture for reuse which lead to a turnover of more than £300,000. Step-by-step guides on how to set up partnership working, from ‘how to set up and run a reuse forum’, to ‘how to make reuse a strategic priority’, and ‘how to establish a reuse baseline in your area’ are available to download. There are also guides to help those who would like to provide for reuse at Household Waste Recycling Centres and through bulky waste collections. In addition to the case studies and ‘how-to’ guides, WRAP is hosting workshops to take attendees through the key elements to getting a partnership in place and up and running by bringing the ‘how-to’ guides to life. Taking place in the Midlands (March 17) and London (March 19), WRAP said that the workshops will offer the opportunity to interact and learn from those who have made reuse work. “Keeping goods in use for longer is a critical part of delivering a circular economy,” explained Linda Crichton, head of resource management at WRAP. “Not only does it reduce pressures on raw materials but has the potential to create new jobs and training opportunities.” “Successful partnerships are key to driving the reuse sector, but it does need a concerted effort by all involved. Done well and it will bring big benefits locally to councils, organisations, individuals and the economy,” she added. According to WRAP, in 2012 the third sector benefited by an estimated £430 million through reuse and reuse organisations created 11,000 full time equivalent jobs. Using its ‘Benefits of Reuse tool’ the organisation also estimated that UK households benefitted by some £6 billion through reuse in 2012, including giving people access to more affordable products. Richard Featherstone from the London Reuse Network commented: “Establishing successful partnerships has its challenges but it is crucial to realising the benefits that can come from reuse. The WRAP guides and case-studies give direction and power-steering to the partnership process and gives inspiration from many different parts of the country where reuse is working today.” Local authorities looking to increase recycling rates and reduce disposal, waste contractors looking to maximise the value of recovered materials and small businesses and charities operating in the sector can pull together, share expertise and achieve further success. To find out how, access the new materials and register for the workshops visit: www.wrap.org.uk/pakts Read More WRAP Plan to Revolutionise Reuse & Recycling of Electricals Backed by Business Major organisations including recycling companies, manufacturers, retailers and universities planning to revolutionise the way we buy, use and dispose of electrical items through the Electrical and Electronic Sustainability Action Plan. £1.25m for London Re-use Network as it Exceeds Reuse & Recycling Target Having exceeded its re-use and recycling targets for a third consecutive year, the London Re-use Network is to benefit from an additional investment of £1.25 million from the London Waste and Recycling Board (LWARB). 10 Innovative Waste Reduction Projects Backed by Waste Prevention Fund The UK government’s Innovation in Waste Prevention (IWP) Fund, managed by the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP), has awarded funding to 10 innovative waste prevention projects that will help move communities away from a throw away culture.