Liverpool! We’re a vibrant city known for our rich history and cultural heritage, and now we’re making a name for ourselves in the realm of waste management. Over the years, the city has been transforming its waste management strategies, shifting from traditional methods to more sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Let’s take a journey through Liverpool’s waste management past, present, and future.

The Past: A Time of Change

In the past, waste management in Liverpool, like many other cities, was a straightforward process. Waste was collected and sent to landfill sites. However, as the city grew, so did the amount of waste. It became clear that this approach was not sustainable. The city needed a change. 

Enter the Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority (MRWA). Recognising the escalating effects of human-induced climate change, the MRWA declared a climate emergency in 2019. They committed to reducing the climate change impacts associated with their activities, marking a significant shift in Liverpool’s waste management approach.

The Present: Embracing Sustainability

Fast forward to today, and you’ll find a city that’s fully committed to combating climate change and achieving zero waste. The MRWA’s Climate Action Plan 2022-23 outlines their strategy, focusing on three key areas: People, Planet, and Economy.

People: The MRWA is empowering staff, residents, and community groups to reduce their waste and carbon-intensive activities. They’re raising awareness about the impact of climate change through education and campaigns, fostering a sense of responsibility and action within the community.

Planet: The MRWA acknowledges the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and use resources wisely. They’re promoting nature recovery, increasing capacity for reuse, and investigating carbon capture opportunities.

Economy: Recognising the potential economic harm of climate change and the opportunities a low-carbon circular economy can bring, the MRWA is educating people, organisations, and businesses about the value of the circular economy and developing circular economy hubs.

The Future: A Vision of Zero Waste

Looking ahead, Liverpool has set ambitious goals for the future. The MRWA aims to achieve zero waste and net zero carbon by 2040. They’ve established a baseline carbon emissions report, which shows that most carbon emissions arise from residual waste treatment. This highlights the importance of reducing the amount of residual waste produced by residents.

The future of waste management in Liverpool is clear: a shift towards a low-carbon circular economy, where waste is viewed as a valuable resource rather than a problem. It’s a future where residents, community groups, and businesses play a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals.

Join the Movement

Liverpool’s journey from traditional waste management to a sustainable, zero-waste future is inspiring. But this transformation isn’t just about the city or the MRWA. It’s about you. You have a role to play in this journey. Whether it’s reducing your waste, reusing items, or recycling, every action counts. 

So, are you ready to join the movement? Let’s work together to make Liverpool a zero-waste city. Every step you take towards reducing waste and carbon emissions makes a difference. Let’s create a sustainable future for Liverpool, for us, and for generations to come.