The need to move to more sustainable patterns of consumption - using resources more wisely and creating less waste - has never been greater.

Creating waste that is not recycled, reused or recovered depletes resources and increases the greenhouse gas emissions linked to global climate change. The Government's Envirowise programme suggests that the cost of waste to UK businesses amounts to at least £15 billion per year - or 4.5% of turnover.

During 2008 challenging economic conditions globally affected the markets for recovered resources, with prices for used paper, plastic and steel hitting an all-time low. This is making recycling more difficult.

The Sustainable Development Commission warns us that the world's economies are putting increasing pressure on natural resources, such as coal, oil, timber and minerals, as well as air, land, water and ecosystems.

The Living Planet Report, published by WWF in October 2008, showed that more than three quarters of the world's people are now living in nations that are ecological debtors - where national consumption has outstripped their country's biological capacity.

Globally, we are now consuming nearly a third more natural resources every year than the planet can replace. That is why it is critical we do whatever we can to ensure we develop our businesses and our economies sustainably. By making better use of resources, such as energy, water and materials, we can help to reduce adverse environmental impacts such as climate change, resource depletion and damage to ecosystems.

During 2008 the EU Council approved the new Waste Framework Directive, which aims to divert waste from landfill by encouraging its recovery as a resource. It focuses on the prevention, reuse, recycling and recovery of waste - including for electricity generation - by simplifying existing legislation. Under the legislation, by 2020 Member States must recycle 50% of their household and similar waste and 70% of their construction and demolition waste.

From 2008 until 2011, landfill tax charges will increase, providing an added incentive for businesses to minimise waste and increase resource recovery.

In April 2008, the Site Waste Management Plans Regulation came into force in England. These regulations cover the planning and carrying out of construction work and aim to address two key issues - improving materials resource efficiency and reducing fly tipping. For further information see http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2008/uksi_20080314_en_1

The UK, Welsh and Scottish Governments all have National Waste strategies - including Scotland's ambitious Zero Waste Scotland strategy. For more information
UK Government National Waste Strategy
Welsh Assembly Government National Waste Strategy
Scottish Government National Waste Strategy

Recycling paper, glass, plastic, aluminium and steel in the UK saves an estimated 18 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, compared to primary material production - so waste prevention and resource recovery have a role to play in tackling climate change.

Excessive consumption and the creation and disposal of waste that cannot be recovered is damaging the economy and the environment.

Ultimately we must all use less and recycle more.

Rupert Steele, Impact Leader