Demand for recycled materials needed say Axion

Axion Polymers is asking for a larger demand for recycled materials across the nation after China’s decision to restrict imports of waste paper and plastics.

Keith Freegard, Director of the Manchester-based plastics recycler, says despite the altered rules introducing a maximum 0.5% contamination level in imported materials presenting a ‘huge challenge’ in the short term, the country ought be taking a look at the opportunities of this situation.

Keith Freegard

Speaking after appearances on BBC News programmes, Keith requested the UK Government consider aiding the growth of a strategic and sustainable resource recovery industry to feed valuable materials into UK manufacturers.

He said further action needs to be taken, including public sector procurement measures, which favour sustainable products both in design and use of recycled materials, and encouraging new product design with mandatory use of recycled/recovered materials at high percentage levels.

Keith added that although recycled material can be purchased worldwide, buying it locally-sourced and secure, from short-supply chains within the same economy and currency is obviously the best option.

He called for proper Government engagement on a clear industrial strategy, involving sourcing materials from growing technology-based materials recovery sector; a strong point that is all the more important as the country heads into a post-EU world. 

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