Government is seeking views on draft guidance for local authorities to pilot schemes aimed at cutting household waste through financial incentives. 

In response to requests from local authorities, Defra announced in November 2007 that it would allow up to five local authorities in England to pilot incentive schemes. Powers to enable the pilots to go ahead are being debated as part of the Climate Change Bill. The first pilots, which will be subject to approval by the Environment Secretary, could start from April 2009.  

Waste incentive schemes can charge or reward people according to the amount of recycled waste a household produces. Schemes must be 'revenue neutral', so any money raised through charges is paid back as rewards.

Environment Minister Joan Ruddock MP said:
"Evidence from countries where these schemes already operate is that charges and rebates of around £50 are enough to change behaviour and deliver real benefits for waste reduction."

Ms Ruddock will be writing to local authorities, inviting them to come forward with proposals for pilot schemes. The deadline will be 8 weeks after Royal Assent to the Climate Change Bill.

For Defra’s press release, please click the external link to Defra's website to the right of this article.