The Minister was commenting following the launch of the blueprint, entitled ‘Making the Most of Packaging’, which sets out a vision for packaging policy over the next decade.
The strategy's key objectives are to make the best use of resources, avoid unnecessary packaging and maximise the recycling of packaging waste.
The Minister said: “Current packaging policies have achieved much in recent years. In 2008 there was zero growth in grocery packaging across the UK, despite increases in both sales and population.
"Here in Northern Ireland, businesses recovered more than 140,000 tonnes of packaging last year. However more can be achieved. We need to ensure we use only the minimum amount of packaging needed to protect a product.
"At the same time, the packaging we do use must be made more recyclable, re-usable and lighter.”
The strategy contains a commitment to consult widely on all the specific policy proposals.
The Minister said: "My officials have worked closely with their UK colleagues in the development of this strategy.
"I am delighted we have been able to pool resources in this way. At the same time, the strategy provides the devolved administrations with sufficient flexibility to take local policy decisions that are in the best interests of the communities they serve.”
Notes to Editors:
1. A new UK -wide Packaging Strategy, entitled ‘Making the Most of Packaging’ was published on 9 June. The document was, developed by Defra, BERR and the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland Assembly governments.
2. The strategy recognises the UK has successfully met its EU packaging targets to date. However it emphasises more needs to be done. It highlights three key drivers: public concern; resource efficiency and the need to minimise greenhouse gas emissions.
3. The strategy seeks to minimise the environmental impact of packaging, without compromising its ability to protect the product. It sets out a 10 year vision for packaging and the promotion of recycling. It emphasises successful implementation will require action from partners throughout the packaging chain, as well as government.
4. A copy of the strategy can be found on the Department’s web site
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