Variable charging is effective because it allows households to influence the level of waste management charges. Under deposit refund systems, return rates for containers are upwards of 80 per cent. The provision of separate collection facilities is important in encouraging household participation in recycling. However, this may only yield a certain participation rate, and a certain level of recovery. Other instruments such as public information and volume-based charging for refuse collection could be used to maximise participation levels and recovery levels.
Public information needs to be ongoing, and is an important tool in supporting other drivers.
The strongest market is that for paper. Market development initiatives may be needed to strengthen the markets for other recycled materials. The case studies show that this is possible, but fiscal incentives and financial support mechanisms are needed. There are currently no plans to introduce a tax on incineration, although this might be necessary if the environmental costs of waste management are to be internalised in waste management practice. The implementation of the Landfill Directive in the UK, with the Article 5 Targets on diversion of biodegradable municipal waste will encourage greater separation and recycling of wastes, particularly paper and organic waste.