Ministers have mooted a dramatic increase in the cost of burying glass in the ground as part of a suite of measures that could boost recycling and bolster government coffers.
The Treasury published a consultation on proposals including removing the lower rate of Landfill Tax in 2030.
This would see a range of “inert or inactive” waste materials charged the same amount as all other refuse sent to licensed burial sites within five years.
A tonne of glass is currently subject to Landfill Tax of £4.05 but this would rise to £126.15 under today’s standard rate.
The government said it was “committed to driving more waste away from landfill so it can be reused and recycled”.
The consultation added: “Though there will continue to be a role for landfill for years to
come, including as a contingency waste disposal route for emergency use, it remains at the bottom of the waste hierarchy.
“Reducing its routine use is key to reducing emissions from waste management, protecting our natural environment and resources and reducing the impact of landfill use on local communities.
“These goals form part of our ambition to transition towards and harness the full potential of a circular economy, in which we will make more productive and efficient use of our resources, keep products in use for longer and in so doing drive UK competitiveness.”
