GLA waste report, and Boris's waste conference

Link to 2009 GLA waste report

"In our report, we identify barriers that are preventing widespread use of new waste to energy technologies. The publication of the Mayor’s Municipal Waste Strategy provides a timely opportunity for the Mayor to actively pursue fundamental changes to the way waste is managed in London.

"This report makes a number of practical recommendations to the Mayor and the London Waste and Recycling Board (LWaRB) that we believe could accelerate the development of the necessary infrastructure for converting waste to energy.

"We highlight, in particular, the long-term nature of municipal waste contracts which can limit the ability of local authorities to produce the waste streams needed for the new plants. The need for planning guidance as to where these plants could be sited and the role that the Mayor and LWaRB could play in supporting the development of these infant industries is also discussed. Inadequate infrastructure like the piping and grid connectivity should also not be forgotten.

"Finally, and not least, public concerns to any new technology require an effective communications strategy particularly if there are fears over possible health impacts."

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Link to Let's Recycle web site

"The C40 Cities network was established in association with the Clinton Climate Initiative, to bring together many of the largest cities in the world, in order to examine ways in which climate change can be addressed.

"From 22 to 24 March 2010, it held its 6th quarterly meeting, with the Greater London Authority hosting representatives from 30 of those cities. The representatives worked together to exchange information, and also to visit some of the best resource recovery and waste treatment facilities throughout London.

"London's Mayor, Boris Johnson opened the workshop in his own inimitable style, arguing the case for waste prevention through addressing the over-packaging, and joked about the health and safety problems of mens' shirt packaging.

"James Cleverly, who as a member of the GLA earlier this year took over the chairing of the London Waste and Recycling Board from the Mayor, outlined the waste treatment deficit faced by Greater London, in order to meet the mayor's target to treat London's waste within its boundaries by 2025."