Written question asked by Joshua Reynolds (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 8 January 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 January 2026. It was answered by Mary Creagh (Labour) on Wednesday, 14 January 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Plastics: Consumption

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will consider including a legally binding target to reduce virgin plastic consumption by 50% by 2030 upcoming Circular Economy Strategy.

Answer

This Government is committed to transitioning towards a circular economy where resources are kept in use for longer and waste is designed out. This systemic change, with investment in green jobs and vital infrastructure, builds a path to economic growth, progress towards Net Zero, restoration of nature, and a more resilient economy.

The Government convened a Circular Economy Taskforce of experts to help map that transition; we will soon publish a Circular Economy Growth Plan that sets out how government will deliver a more circular and more prosperous economy.

The Plan will set out the biggest opportunities to support growth in sectors right across the economy, including chemicals and plastics, as well as: agri-food; built environment; electrical and electronic equipment; textiles; and transport.

Defra, in collaboration with experts across Government, industry, academia and relevant non-governmental organisations, will assess what further interventions may be needed across the plastics sector.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 104389
Session: 2024-26
Subjects: Consumption Plastics
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Plastics: Consumption

Secondary information

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