Business could face increased waste costs post Brexit
10th May 2017 | Recycling
Leaving the EU could result in “two tier” supply chains between the UK waste and recycling industry and those of Europe, according to resource efficiency specialist Ecosurety.
The impact of Brexit could mean rising costs for businesses, according to the company, which last month responded to a Government consultation on the country’s future industrial strategy (BEIS).
However, the greater likelihood was Scotland and Wales would forge different directions from England, which would have a detrimental impact on businesses, consumers and the environment.
Mark Sayers, principal consultant and Ecosurety, says, “There is a risk that product and resource standards in the UK could differ from our European counterparts and other global markets and as a result we could potentially see a “two tier system develop in the UK.”
To a lesser degree, but perhaps more likely we will see waste becoming devolved in Scotland and Wales. This and/ or differences between us and the devolved nations, or us and European countries, would mean increased costs for businesses. Business thrives on continuity and economies of scale. Common supply and product requirements reduce costs for businesses and maintain a level playing field when it comes to competing against global competitors.”
If one UK nation adheres to lower or higher standards than the others, the UK’s overall resource efficiency rates could fall, and could lead to higher disposal costs, Ecosurety predicts.
Mark explains, “The Environment (Wales) Act, and the mandatory requirements that have resulted from it, have had an impact on businesses and could result in market distortions that could become exaggerated if the UK does become aligned on waste policy after exiting the EU. At this critical time for the UK, we must remain harmonised if we are build our own path for the future of resource management.”
More information available on the website below
http://ciwm-journal.co.uk/businesses-face-increased-waste-costs-post-brexit-ecosurety/