Expansion of Circular Economy Practices
The UK is making significant strides in adopting circular economy practices to promote sustainable resource management and reduce environmental impact. Central to this effort is the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP), a British charity established in 2000, which collaborates with businesses, individuals, and communities to minimise waste and enhance resource efficiency. WRAP has launched initiatives like "Recycle Now," "Love Food, Hate Waste," and "Love Your Clothes" to encourage recycling, food waste reduction, and sustainable fashion practices.
In the energy sector, the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) was introduced in July 2023 to improve energy efficiency in residential properties. Running until March 2026, GBIS aims to assist households in reducing energy bills by implementing specific insulation measures, thereby decreasing the carbon footprint of homes across Great Britain.
Innovative recycling initiatives are also emerging.
For instance, the Royal Mint has inaugurated a facility in Llantrisant, Wales, to recover precious metals from electronic waste. This plant processes 4,000 tonnes of circuit boards annually, extracting valuable metals like gold, silver, and copper, exemplifying a commitment to the circular economy.
These developments underscore the UK's dedication to expanding circular economy practices, fostering sustainable resource management, and minimising environmental impact.
Want to know how construction fits in to this important movement….read Chapter 4 Greenprint HERE
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