Title

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

One in 5 councils affected by China's waste ban

One in five councils have been directly affected by China’s ban on imported waste over the past year, according to a new survey.

One in five councils have been directly affected by China's ban on imported waste over the past year, according to a new survey.

The poll, conducted by the Local Government Association (LGA), found China's restrictions on imports of mixed paper and certain types of plastic have increased recycling costs for some councils by as much as £500,000.

Fees charged to councils to process materials collected from kerbside collection at a materials recovery facility (MRF) are said to have increased from £15 to £22 per tonne over the last year.

The LGA's environment spokesman, Cllr Martin Tett, said: ‘It's clear that the ban by China on imported waste, which could soon be implemented by other countries, could have a marked impact on councils' ability to recycle.

'It's essential that the Government provides support to help councils offset the loss of income they face as a result of the ban and encourage manufacturers to use more recyclable materials.

‘The rising costs caused by this ban risk combining with ongoing and severe council funding pressures to affect other essential local services.'

The LGA called on the Government to address the impact of the ban in its forthcoming resources and waste strategy.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

Leaders call for councils to get £400m sports funding

By William Eichler | 05 August 2025

Council leaders have urged ministers to ensure the £400m announced in the Spending Review for grassroots sports is targeted towards leisure centres and swimm...

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

Fears of 'risk to life' as healthcare equipment maker on brink of collapse

By Lee Peart | 31 July 2025

Council leaders have warned of a a ‘devastating impact’ and ‘risk to life’ with a healthcare equipment maker on the brink of collapse.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

Partnering in Essex to promote a greener future

By George Frost | 31 July 2025

George Frost looks at how group community energy schemes are pioneering sustainable solutions in Essex.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

With change comes opportunity

By Mae Wilson | 31 July 2025

As local government reorganisation begins to take shape, Mae Wilson and Gemma Stevenson-Coupe say this is a chance to transform your approach to the workforc...

Popular articles by Laura Sharman