Everyone has a role to play
National government – set the framework
National government includes elected MPs and civil servants who shape the rules and systems for waste and circular economy activities.
| Responsibility | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Waste Management Act | Defines roles and responsibilities across all levels |
| Waste Management Policy | Sets the direction for national and municipal action |
| Integrated Strategy | Sets targets, incentives and penalties for better recycling and safe disposal |
| Circular Economy Roadmap | Shows how to reduce waste (e.g. promoting refill instead of single-use plastics) |
| Material & process standards | Ensures safety and quality across the recycling chain |
| Planning legislation | Requires land to be set aside for waste management facilities |
| Environmental regulator | Oversees and enforces waste laws and permits |
| Recycling incentives | Offers tax breaks or easier rules for recycling businesses and recycled materials |
Local municipality – run day-to-day services
Local authorities include councillors (elected) and officers (civil servants) who work closely with communities and national government to deliver services.
| Responsibility | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Municipal Waste Strategy | Describes local waste types, amounts, and how waste will be managed |
| Disposal site plans | Prevents pollution from local dumpsites or waste transfer stations |
| By-laws | Bans open dumping and burning, and requires proper use of services |
| Development Plan | Reserves space for waste and recycling work, and sets planning conditions |
| Community Waste Forum | Encourages feedback and support from local people |
| Local incentives | Offers support like reduced rent or help for waste-based enterprises |
Plastic recycling organisations – deliver on the ground
Recycling organisations can be private companies, not-for-profits or cooperatives. Their success depends on being safe, formalised, and integrated into the wider system.
| Responsibility | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Follow regulations | Comply with national and local waste laws |
| Work with local government | Coordinate services and planning |
| Get permits | Register your activities and get approvals for collection, transport and processing |
| Operate safely | Put health and safety systems in place for staff, neighbours and the environment [see: Health & safety] |
| Build the right structure | Choose a setup that fits your context – from cooperatives to SMEs [see: Building your team] |
