Programme for Government: Public Sector Reform and Environment Public Bodies – statement from Zero Waste Scotland

The Scottish Government has set out its plans for Public Service Reform as part of the Programme for Government.  An important change is proposed for Zero Waste Scotland.  Together with NatureScot, SEPA and potentially Scottish Forestry, we will be part of a new consolidated body which will have the key functions of each organisation.  This will create a new body, designed to deliver greater efficiencies while integrating the expertise and authority of its constituent parts to deliver better outcomes for people, nature, our economy and for future generations. 

Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland, Ciaran McGuigan said:

“Zero Waste Scotland recognises and supports the principle of Public Service Reform in Scotland.  We support the emphasis placed by the Scottish Government on delivering even better outcomes for the people of Scotland and we will continue to play our part in building the more circular economy that we know contributes to the future economic and environmental health of the nation.  While the work of consulting on and then creating the new body will develop over the coming year or so, I can assure all who support our collaborative work to build the circular economy that this work continues at pace and with the full support of the Scottish Government.” 

Chair of the Board of Zero Waste Scotland, Dominic Fry commented:

“Structures may change, but the imperative of building a circular economy that supports Scotland in tackling climate change, building economic resilience and reducing the nations’ resource use remains.  The Board is committed to working collaboratively with our colleagues both within Zero Waste Scotland, our key stakeholders and our sister organisations in creating the new organisation to be one fit for future challenges.  I know that our colleagues and Executive Team will remain focused on our delivery as we help shape the new body, and they have the Board’s support and appreciation for their commitment and professionalism.”

Consultation on the detail of shaping the new body are expected later in the Autumn, and the Scottish Government have indicated a timetable which would see the new body ready for service by 2029. Zero Waste Scotland is committed to full engagement with our colleagues and key stakeholders in understanding the implications of the reform.