Households in the UK discarded an estimated 5.6 million tonnes (t) of packaging waste in 2023, according to a new analysis.  

The study was commissioned by the Local Government Association (LGA), District Councils Network and County Councils Network.

It revealed that 3.2 million tonnes of packaging was directed towards recycling bins while 2.3 million tonnes ended up in residual bins. 

An additional 70,000t were said to be incorrectly placed in food waste containers. 

The findings are released as politicians, councillors, and organisations discuss on ways to revamp waste services to progress towards a zero-waste society at the LGA’s Annual Conference.  

The spotlight is on the forthcoming extended producer responsibility scheme, which, from 2026 will mandate that the industry shoulders the costs for processing packaging waste managed by councils.  

This coincides with proposed changes to domestic waste collection services. 

In response to the findings, councils are advocating for reforms that prioritise reducing unnecessary packaging and enhancing its recyclability.  

They also demand more transparent packaging labelling to aid households in correctly disposing of waste.  

A YouGov poll commissioned by the LGA indicates a public preference for producers to bear the financial responsibility for minimising packaging waste, with 48% supporting this view compared to just 4% who believe councils should handle these costs. 

Moreover, 85% of respondents agree that businesses should be legally bound to cut down on packaging usage.  

LGA environmental spokesperson and Westminster City Council councillor Adam Hug said: “We support reforms that move the costs for dealing with packaging waste from councils onto the producers. However, it is crucial that the costs are met, that councils continue to lead local waste and recycling services, and that the focus is on reducing unnecessary waste in the first place.”