As the UK grapples with over 12.7 million tonnes of plastic packaging waste annually, research we commission has found a clear divergence between MPs and the public about how much the Government should intervene to deal with the challenge.
While recycling rates for materials like metal, glass, and cardboard hover around 70%, plastic remains stubbornly below 50%. This is particularly problematic due to its persistence and environmental impact.
Public support for reducing the use of single-use plastics stands at 68%, whereas only 49% of MPs agree. Our research found similar trends across other packaging materials, such as glass, cardboard, and metal. For instance, while 52% of the public favour intervention to reduce cardboard packaging, only 27% of MPs do.
As opinions vary across different materials, it prompts considerations about potential shifts in policy under a potential Labour government. Labour's inclination toward interventionist policies, coupled with higher support for such policies from Labour MPs, could lead to stricter measures if the polls are to be believed and we have a change of Government this year.
While the current Government has taken steps to tackle plastic packaging waste, industry-backed initiatives demonstrate the evolving landscape of packaging waste management. It remains uncertain if a possible Labour government would significantly deviate from current reforms, with Shadow Environment Secretary Steve Reed MP stating that "if [the Resources and Waste Strategy] is an easy win, let's have it". But, in the longer term, there may be moves to incentivise or ban the use of certain materials.
With the polls suggesting Labour will form the next Government - or at least be the majority party - it will be interesting to see what steps they will take in the plastic packaging waste war.
About the author:
David Button is Head of Insight at Cavendish, one of the UK's largest communications consultancies. David specialises in helping clients build their influence with the Government and Parliament through insight-led campaigns. He is a member of the Market Research Society (MRS).
This YouGov and Cavendish Consulting research provides valuable insights based on polls conducted with 2,031 adults, reflecting the views of all GB adults aged 18+, conducted online between October 17th and 18th, 2023. For more sector-specific insights, refer to the full research here.