Create reuse facilities across Scotland

Chapter 9.2.3 Invest in facilities

Provide central funding to help local authorities to provide reuse facilities.

International

UK Govt

Scottish Govt

Local Authorities

Emissions reduction

Behaviour change

Currently local authority recycling sites in Scotland are geared towards recycling rather than reuse. Many have no provision for reuse at all, while others are inadequate. Currently, too many items which could be reused are being sent for recycling or even incineration or landfill.

There is a mixed picture for reuse services at Scottish recycling centres, with examples of good practice and collaboration in some areas.

The Scottish Government should help local authorities to create high-quality “Set Aside for Reuse” facilities at every local authority Household Waste Recycling Centre in Scotland. This assistance should encourage local authorities to prioritise donating appropriate materials to local social enterprises wherever practical to do so. These sites should be renamed in line with circular economy values, for example ‘Resource Centres.’

Investment should target:

prioritising reuse for site visitors – set-aside for reuse should be the first and most visible option on entry
clear signage and directions for site visitors
weather-proof storage facilities to protect donations
investing in site staff education around set-aside for reuse
supporting on-site collaboration with circular economy organisations
investing in public education campaigns around reuse and circular economy

Items donated at these facilities should be passed on to circular economy organisations to further stimulate the local economy.

A comprehensive baseline assessment of the current reuse and preparing for reuse services at every recycling centre in Scotland is required. Disabled peoples’ organisations should be involved in the design of facilities for recycling, reuse and repair.

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