Recommendation 12

Waste tracking data is currently collected in multiple systems: some paper-based and some digital, some operated by private contractors and some by the government; not all information is collated centrally.34 Since the 2018 Resources and Waste Strategy, the government has intended to collect more comprehensive tracking data in a single, central electronic system: digital waste tracking.35 The plans currently under consultation are to cover the 200 million tonnes of waste produced each year across the UK, and to capture 10 pieces of information (such as the waste classification, waste movements and waste treatment) from the point of production to the end of its life.36 Digital waste tracking underpins the Agency’s and Defra’s plans to measure progress against the overarching goal of eradicating waste crime.37 Defra also told us that digital waste tracking is part of strengthening the regulatory system for waste and will make a big difference.38 The Environment Agency said that data from digital waste tracking will enable waste crime to be identified, and allow the Agency and its partners to target their resources much more effectively to tackle or even prevent that waste crime.39