Parliament Workbench
Data: Motions & questions to 19 Nov 2026

Written Question · S6W-36710 · Session 6

What proportion of soft plastics collected in Scotland are recycled in Scotland. 

Answered Asked by Maurice Golden Con Lodged 4 Apr 2025

The question

To ask the Scottish Government what proportion of soft plastics collected in Scotland are recycled in Scotland.

The answer

Answered by Gillian Martin on 2 May 2025 · 28 days after it was lodged, on time

Household soft plastics are not routinely recycled by Scottish Local Authorities. Data is not collected specifically on soft plastics, but Zero Waste Scotland extrapolate from SEPA annual estimates of the amount of plastic waste generated in Scotland and managed in / out with Scotland in the Waste From All Sources report: Waste (from all sources). It is not possible to break this analysis down into sub-types of plastic waste.From 2027, all local authorities must collect soft plastic films and flexibles through kerbside recycling programs. This commitment aims to enhance domestic recycling capabilities and reduce reliance on exports.The Scottish Government remains committed to expanding recycling infrastructure and capabilities, ensuring that more waste is managed and processed within Scotland, thereby creating economic opportunities and environmental benefits for our communities.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S6W-36710 by reference.