Monday 16th June 2008
Press Statement

Statement in response to reports in the Sunday Telegraph (15.06.08) and the Daily Express (16.06.08) concerning monthly residual waste collections

News stories in the Sunday Telegraph yesterday and the Daily Express today have caused confusion and, in particular, the story in the Daily Express has misrepresented the views of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) and its Chief Executive Steve Lee.

The CIWM is not aware of any local authorities anywhere in the UK who are considering a move to monthly collections of residual (non-recyclable) waste in the UK and does not advocate such a move. In a discussion with the Sunday Telegraph, Mr Lee referred to practices in certain areas in Germany as a factual example of the kind of developments in parts of Europe where very high recycling rates have already been achieved.

Any suggestion that because this happens in Germany it will be replicated in the UK has no basis in fact.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) is the leading professional body for the waste management sector representing over 7000 individuals in the UK and overseas. Established in 1898, CIWM is a non profit-making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers.  CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues.

2. Comprehensive information about CIWM can be found at www.ciwm.co.uk

Contacts:

Pat Jennings,
CIWM Communications Office
Tel: 01604 620426
Mob: 07912 228260
E-mail: pat.jennings@ciwm.co.uk