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The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has said that waste and resources should be pushed up the global political agenda if the world is to stay within the 1.5C threshold.
Speaking after the close of the COP26 event in Glasgow, CIWM president Dr Adam Read said: “Whilst unfortunately we cannot say that COP26 has secured 1.5°C, unanimous agreement on revisiting emissions-cutting plans, increasing financial support for developing countries and, for the first time, phasing down the unabated use of coal are positive steps that should give us some hope.
“Whilst it was disappointing not to see waste and resources better represented on the main agenda, it was hugely encouraging to witness the sector proactively discussing practical action it can take to accelerate the development of the circular economy and battle climate change at a host of ‘fringe’ events. It is clear that those working in the UK waste and resources industry are committed to moving to a world beyond waste and driving change despite the apparent lack of recognition on the international stage.”
Read said that there is still reason be hopeful that the Paris 2015 target can still be met despite what many will see as the last-minute ‘watering down’ of the ‘Glasgow Climate pact’.
The institute also recognised the importance of several other agreements at the event, including the commitment to reduce methane and the increased use of sustainable fuels.
