§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps his Department is taking to help local authorities reach the targets set by the National Waste Strategy. [155764]
Mr. Robert AinsworthThe Waste Strategy 2000 set targets for the recovery of municipal waste and the recycling and composting of household waste and the reduction in the landfilling of biodegradable municipal waste.
In Waste Strategy 2000 we announced that we would consult on the design and operation of a scheme of tradeable landfill permits for waste disposal authorities to meet the landfill diversion targets. We have published that consultation paper today.
Waste Strategy 2000 also announced targets for doubling the recycling or composting of household waste within three years and nearly tripling it within five years, to be underpinned by statutory performance standards for each local authority under the Best Value regime. These standards were published on 5 March.
Spending Review 2000 provided major extra funding directly to local authorities to address waste and recycling, as set out in answer to the hon. Member for Ashford (Mr. Green) on 14 December 2000, Official Report, column 200W. The new Waste and Resources Action Programme, whose funding now stands at £40 million over the next three years, will operate across all waste streams to foster markets for recycled materials.
On 10 March, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport announced the next round of lottery funding (the New Opportunities Fund), including a programme to expand community sector waste reuse, recycling and composting. Such community sector activity can help local authorities to meet their targets.
On 23 June we issued guidance on managing the waste function within Best Value and on 5 March we published guidance to local authorities on municipal waste management strategies. These strategies will set out authorities' plans for achieving all of their targets.
568WWaste management was a theme in the first year of the Beacon Council Scheme. We have launched an initiative in partnership with the Local Government Association, the Improvement and Development Agency, the Institute of Wastes Management and the Environmental Services Association to establish and maintain networks of authorities, the industry and community sectors to spread good practice.