The Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to receive an update from the North London Waste Authority and discuss draft recommendations for a scrutiny review on household recycling and waste reduction. The committee was also set to review its work plan for the upcoming year.

Annual Update from the North London Waste Authority

The committee was scheduled to receive an annual update from the North London Waste Authority (NLWA)¹. The NLWA is a statutory body responsible for the disposal of waste collected by seven north London boroughs, including Islington. The update was expected to cover the authority's performance and activities over the past year.

Scrutiny Review 2025/26: Household Recycling and Waste Reduction Draft Recommendations

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing draft recommendations for the 2025/26 scrutiny review concerning household recycling and waste reduction. The report pack indicated that this review would draw on evidence gathered, including from a resident recycling survey and a Recycling Resident Summit. Key areas for discussion were expected to include the effectiveness of the Do Your Bit, Recycle It campaign, which aims to improve clarity on recycling, build confidence in the service, and motivate residents. The report pack highlighted that the campaign is grounded in behavioural science and has employed various communication channels.

The review was also set to examine targeted engagement activities in areas with lower recycling rates, the role of schools in promoting recycling education, and barriers to recycling identified by residents. These barriers included a lack of information, limited bin capacity and accessibility on estates, concerns about hygiene, and uncertainty about what can be recycled. The report pack suggested that recommendations might focus on improving recycling infrastructure on estates, enhancing signage, increasing bin capacity, and ensuring consistent provision of food waste recycling facilities. The effectiveness of the Recycling Champions scheme and the potential for reuse and repair initiatives were also likely to be considered.

Committee Work Plan 2025-26

The committee was scheduled to review and discuss its work plan for the 2025-26 period. This plan outlines the topics and reviews the committee intends to undertake throughout the year. The report pack indicated that the work plan would detail scheduled meetings and the key items to be addressed at each.