Reducing, reusing and recycling London’s waste

We produce around 20 million tonnes of waste in London every year and this is forecast to increase as our city continues to grow. We want to reverse this trend and to this end are focusing on how best to reduce, reuse and recycle household and business waste.

The Mayor consulted on his draft waste management strategy with the London Assembly and other stakeholders during January -March 2010. 

Tackling business waste

London’s businesses produce around three-quarters of London’s waste. Our draft Business Waste Management Strategy sets out a vision of:

• A high level of recycling and composting so that more waste is reused and less waste is produced.
• Advanced waste technologies used for treating non-recyclable waste, particularly technologies that produce energy.
• London primarily managing its own waste, reducing the impact on surrounding regions.
• High quality advice, support and recycling services offered to all businesses consistently across London.
• Minimising the effect of London’s waste on climate change.

Tackling municipal waste

We produce enough municipal waste in London to fill Canary Wharf tower every eight days. Most of this waste is taken outside London and buried in landfill sites. This cannot continue and we are seeking other options through our Municipal Waste Management Strategy.

Tackling household waste

Household recycling and waste is taken by the London boroughs. We are working with the London boroughs and partners on how best to encourage and help households across London reduce, reuse and recycle their waste. In addition to the proposals set out in the Municipal Waste Management Strategy, you can find practical ideas on how to reduce, reuse and recycle waste at www.recycleforlondon.com