NORTH LONDON SETS SIGHTS ON ZERO WASTE FUTURE
North London Waste Authority (NLWA) has signed off a bold new Joint Waste Strategy that sets an ambitious path toward a zero waste future for seven boroughs in the capital. The 15-year plan aims to slash waste, boost recycling, and cut carbon emissions across Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Hackney, Haringey, Islington, and Waltham Forest by 2040.
The strategy includes key commitments to cut avoidable food and recyclable waste in half, double reuse rates at local reuse and recycling centres, and achieve a 50% household recycling rate—all while eliminating the use of landfill entirely. These targets form part of a wider drive to reduce the environmental impact of waste, support circular economy principles, and help north London play its part in tackling the climate crisis.
Spanning the next decade and a half, the strategy marks a significant step forward for sustainability in one of the most densely populated regions in the UK. It aims to make waste reduction and responsible resource use a core part of everyday life, bringing long-term environmental and economic benefits to local communities.
The plan was three years in the making and shaped by input from over 5,000 residents, gathered during two rounds of public consultation. This extensive engagement ensured the strategy reflects the views, priorities, and practical needs of the people it’s designed to serve.
“This is about creating a low-waste future for everyone in north London,” NLWA said. “We’re tackling the big environmental issues while ensuring our plans reflect the communities we serve.”
The strategy sets out to reduce the carbon footprint of waste disposal and promote reuse, repair, and recycling as part of a more circular, sustainable approach to consumption. This means moving away from the traditional ‘take, make, dispose’ model toward one that keeps valuable materials in use for as long as possible.
To achieve this, NLWA and the boroughs will focus on improving infrastructure, increasing public awareness, and building partnerships with community groups, schools, and businesses to support behaviour change. The plan also supports the creation of green jobs and skills linked to the low-waste economy.
Each of the seven boroughs must now formally approve the strategy through their local councils. Barnet has already agreed to adopt the plan, with the others expected to follow in the coming months.
Once fully adopted, the strategy will guide waste policy and investment decisions for years to come—laying the foundation for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable north London.
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