The National Waste Database, NWD, report published by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1996 indicates that, in 1995, 7.8% of household and commercial waste was recycled, while 17.3% of reported hazardous and non-hazardous industrial waste was recovered. Information and statistics on recycling performance in 1999 are not yet available. I understand the Environmental Protection Agency will shortly publish a National Waste Database report for 1998.
As outlined in my policy statement, Changing our Ways, overall Government policy on waste management is committed to a dramatic reduction in reliance on landfill, in favour of an integrated waste management approach which will deliver ambitious waste recycling and recovery targets. These are stated over a 15 year time frame to include a diversion of 50% of overall household waste away from landfill, a minimum 65% reduction in biodegradable municipal waste consigned to landfill, the development of composting and other feasible biological treatment facilities capable of treating up to 300,000 tonnes of organic waste annually, recycling of 35% of municipal waste, and recycling at least 50% of C&D waste within a five year period, with a progressive increase to at least 85% over 15 years.
The waste management plans currently being developed and adopted by the local authorities are generally aimed at meeting these targets and incorporate proposals for household segregation and "kerbside" collection of organic waste and dry recyclables in urban areas; an extended network of "bring" facilities in rural areas, typically with a target density of one facility per 500 population; an increased network of civic amenity sites and waste transfer stations; and a range of waste treatment and disposal facilities.
I am satisfied that the systematic approach now being adopted will provide a good basis on which to address the difficulties associated with improving our national materials recycling performance.
In addition, a policy statement on waste recycling and waste recovery generally is currently in preparation. This policy document will address in detail the factors and practical considerations which are relevant to the achievement of Government policy objectives in this area, and outline the scope of measures which will be undertaken in support of better recycling performance.