The UK Net Zero Strategy published at COP26 in 2021 set the target of eliminating biodegradable waste sent to landfill from 2028. Since then, policies have, and continue to be, developed to support delivery of that target.
On 12 November 2024, at COP29, the Prime Minister updated the UK’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) announcing a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels.
This new emission target is significantly bolder than the previous target of 68% by 2030.
On 19 November 2024, at COP29, the UK, along with 30+ countries signed a Declaration on Reducing Methane from Organic Waste. A landmark move as it is the first time a COP declaration has focused on food waste.
In 2022 the UK signed the Global Methane Pledge to collectively reduce global methane emissions by at least 30% by 2030 compared to 2020 levels. Scientists believe this to be the minimum required reduction to meet the 1.5-degree warming limit.
In 2023 at COP28 there was a call on all parties to accelerate and substantially reduce non-carbon-dioxide emissions globally – especially methane emissions – by 2030.
