Erin McGreehan
Ceist:164. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment his views on waste management in Ireland, and the importance of the circular economy. [72998/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 18 December 2025
Ceisteanna (164)
Freagraí scríofa
In line with the evolution of EU and UN environmental policy, the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy was published in September 2020. The first Circular Economy Strategy and the Circular Economy Programme were published in November 2021, and in July 2022 the Circular Economy Act completed its passage through the Oireachtas.
Over the past number of years, we have put in place the necessary policy and regulatory framework required for a successful circular transition. Now that the policy and regulatory framework is in place, I intend to build on that momentum.
We have taken significant steps to drive the necessary improvements in our waste segregation practices which will form a major part of our efforts to meet forthcoming EU waste recycling targets. These include incentivised charging for the commercial sector, the roll-out of a national biowaste collection service, levies that will encourage more segregation, recycling and re-use, a new Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan, and the introduction of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme.
The second Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy, which was recently subject to a public consultation, makes the business case for the circular economy setting a holistic vision, supporting practices such as eco-design, repair, reuse and remanufacturing. It will provide for incentives that will create a level playing field for circular economy actors, practices and products, and leverage public procurement to create a market for circular products and practices.
My officials are now reviewing the submissions made with a view to publishing the Strategy early next year.