Recycling – Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 – Recycling & Net Zero Targets

The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 came into effect on 6th of June 2022 and specifies the Waste Management sector as a priority area for the reduction of GHG emissions to contribute to NI’s Net Zero ambitions.

The waste management sector is responsible for 4% of NI’s total emissions and includes a key aim of achieving 70% recycling by 2030. A definition of this target is required before progress can be made.

Type of Change

Statutory.

Affected Stakeholders

  • Local Authorities
  • Central Government
  • Waste Management Operators

Changes

  • To define the 70% recycling target.
  • Achieve 70% of recycling by 2030.

Status

Officials have submitted the first draft of the Waste management sector input to the Climate Action Plan that will contribute to meeting the commitments of the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.

The policies and proposals included have been quantified and are currently under review to assess whether the requirements have been met before issuing a public consultation.

Officials have completed the many impact assessments required by the Act.

Expected Timeline

Waste Sector input submitted 16th December 2022. Work ongoing to refine, quantify and cost proposals. Consultation expected – summer 2024.

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