Despite the big announcement, which is expected to divide opinion across the sector, Mr Stuart gave away few details in terms of the timeframe for the new policy. And, he also made no comment on whether food waste collections would have any knock-on effect on the frequency of residual waste collections.

Addressing delegates at the conference, Mr Stuart said: “The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will shortly launch its Resources and Waste Strategy. It sets our objective to maximise the value we get from our resources while minimising the negative impacts of waste materials at the end of their working lives.

“It tackles long-standing issues like waste crime, collection systems, packaging and plastic pollution, including requiring, requiring, separate food waste collections.”

Mr Stuart continued: “That’s a big step change and I know the industry will respond to this opportunity to develop the infrastructure we will need to ensure this separated waste stream is utilised.”

Industry

And, in terms of the AD industry, Mr Stuart said the Government understands that it offers “remarkable possibilities” for the UK’s future. And, he added: “Few industries in the UK can boast such a combination of advantages for the environment, for our economy and need for international development”.

Defra’s waste strategy is expected to be published in the coming weeks, however, the department’s stance on separate waste collections has been uncertain up until this point.