Written question WQ85510

The transition to a circular economy is crucial if we are to tackle the root causes of the climate emergency and nature crisis and is therefore a key part of the action we are taking to deliver on our Programme for Government objectives.

Having published Wales’ first circular economy strategy, Beyond Recycling, last year, which set out the actions we will take to make the circular economy a reality in Wales, we have also fully embedded a circular economy approach within our Net Zero Wales Plan.

The actions we are taking to transition to a circular economy include a wide range of measures to deliver a zero waste, net zero carbon nation by using resources more efficiently. These include Programme for Government commitments to introduce Extended Producer Responsibility and support repair, reuse and recycling facilities in town centres. This is alongside further action to continue to improve our recycling, stimulate demand for recycled material and increase supply chain resilience.

Our aim is to drive systemic change which increases resource efficiency across all sectors, keeps materials in use for as long as possible and supports the move away from high embedded carbon, non-recyclable, single-use materials.