The Lincolnshire Waste Partnership was scheduled to discuss updates from its member councils, a food waste initiative, and regulatory changes affecting waste management. The meeting's agenda also included a review of the partnership's forward plan.

Partner Updates

The meeting was scheduled to receive verbal updates from each of the partner councils on their waste management activities. This would have included information on the rollout of new bins and vehicles, recruitment of engagement officers, and reviews of waste disposal routes. For instance, West Lindsey District Council was expected to report on the delivery of food waste caddies and the commencement of collections, while South Kesteven District Council was anticipated to provide an update on its food waste priority and potential amendments to waste collection timetables. North Kesteven District Council was expected to detail the progress of food waste caddy distribution and vehicle procurement, alongside any delays to depot expansion. The City of Lincoln Council was scheduled to report on food waste caddy distribution, staff recruitment, and the continuation of trials using AI to identify contaminated waste.

Food Waste Update

A report was scheduled to be presented on the ongoing and planned rollouts of new waste collection and disposal regulations concerning food waste, along with the supporting communications campaign. The report was expected to highlight major future milestones as part of a roadmap of goals. Discussions were anticipated to cover potential communication strategies, such as promoting lifestyle changes to reduce food waste and potentially linking this to issues surrounding food banks. The effectiveness of different communication channels, including official versus informal online sharing, was also expected to be considered. The report was also to address the possibility of communications taking place at lower authority levels, such as Parish councils, and the continuation of radio and animated advertising produced by Lincolnshire County Council.

Regulatory Updates

An update was scheduled to be provided on relevant legislative and regulatory changes since the previous meeting. The primary focus was expected to be on the introduction of a deposit return scheme and the recycling of 'soft plastics', such as plastic bags and food wrapping. The report was intended to offer the Partnership an opportunity to ask questions about the proposed methodology for soft plastic collection. Concerns were also expected to be raised regarding the competency of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and its perceived indifferent attitude towards the financial difficulties imposed on local government bodies by new waste regulations. The report was also to address the cost pressures associated with soft plastic recycling without additional support and anticipated costs for emissions trading schemes.

Lincolnshire Waste Partnership Forward Plan

The meeting was scheduled to consider the Lincolnshire Waste Partnership's Forward Plan. It was also noted that the results of the consultation on household waste recycling could be discussed at a future meeting. The forward plan outlines scheduled topics and responsible officers for upcoming meetings throughout 2026 and 2027, including partner updates, performance updates, and regulatory updates.