Posted on 8th November 2019
The Rediscovery Centre welcomes Minister Bruton’s announcement to introduce
environmental levies to encourage more sustainable behaviour
The levies aim to reduce the use of plastics, single use cups, landfill and takeaway waste in Ireland
The Rediscovery Centre, the National Centre for the Circular Economy, has seen a huge surge of interest in the Circular Economy and environmental issues, as the public are looking for alternatives to the current make, take and dispose culture. This announcement will help to overhaul Ireland’s dependence on plastic and non-recyclable products.
Dr. Sarah Miller, CEO of the Rediscovery Centre, stated:
“As the National Centre for the Circular Economy, we welcome this announcement as one of the many measures needed to stimulate the circular economy and maximise the efficiency of resource use in Ireland.”
Ireland has a huge dependence on single use items like plastics and non-recyclable products. It is well documented that the earth has limited resources and more sustainable products are required. The current model is indefensible with one piece of single use plastic taking up to 500 years to decompose. With increased awareness of climate change, the public have started to demand smarter and more sustainable options to choose from. The introduction of financial levies will encourage the remaining customers to request more sustainable options that won’t incur a levy.
Dr. Sarah Miller added:
“Financial instruments such as levies on single use plastics and other disposable items are necessary to support behaviour change and stimulate growth in the Circular Economy. Waste recovery levies and increases in the landfill levy, if appropriately applied, support the reuse and repair sector, which is much needed in Ireland. Maximising the value of precious resources and changing consumer behaviour is critical in the development of a truly circular economy and is required in order to meet the surmounting challenge of climate change.”
The Rediscovery Centre is the first of its kind in Ireland and works with organisations throughout the country to help create a more sustainable and robust circular economy in Ireland. As part of their strategic partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency, the Rediscovery Centre is currently undertaking research into a circular plastics economy for Ireland. This involves consulting with plastics recyclers, waste management companies, and manufactures utilising plastic in their production. This project aims to provide valuable insights into opportunities for resource efficient use of plastics in Ireland.
