Our aim is to become a zero-waste society. This means reducing demand for raw materials, preventing waste and increasing reuse, recycling and recovery. This will support a more resilient, productive economy as well as protecting our environment.
Scotland is moving away from a ‘take, make and dispose’ approach towards the circular economy model. A circular economy means keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible, rather than throwing them away after one use. This shift reduces waste and cuts carbon emissions, while strengthening economic resilience through better use of resources and less reliance on global supply chains.
Climate change and nature loss are already affecting communities, the economy and the environment. Using resources more efficiently helps address these challenges while supporting innovation, business growth and jobs across Scotland.
Actions
We are managing and reducing waste in Scotland by:
- reducing and reusing materials, including cutting consumption and preventing items from becoming waste through support for repair, reuse and sharing activities
- modernising recycling services, including developing more consistent household recycling collections and investing in recycling infrastructure
- reducing emissions from waste disposal, including actions to limit landfill use and manage non-recyclable waste more effectively
- introducing a Deposit Return Scheme for drinks containers in October 2027 to increase recycling rates and reduce litter
- taking action to prevent litter and flytipping, including stronger enforcement and national behaviour change campaigns
Background
The Circular Economy and Waste Route Map (December 2024) sets out actions Scotland will take to 2030.
We published A Circular Economy Strategy for Scotland (March 2026) which outlines the benefits of a more circular economy and how we are building it to 2045.
We are also:
- setting new statutory circular economy targets by 2027
- funding Zero Waste Scotland to deliver programmes on resource efficiency, waste prevention and behaviour change
- supporting SEPA to regulate waste management and promote resource efficiency
We have already made significant progress including:
- reducing waste by over 20% since 2011
- increasing the recycling rate to 62.2% in 2023
- reducing landfill by 61% since 2011
- reducing greenhouse gas emissions from waste by 76% between 1998 and 2024
Bills and legislation
The Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012
The Single Use Carrier Bags Charge (Scotland) Regulations 2014
The Deposit Return Scheme for Scotland Regulations 2020
Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024 provides new powers to reduce waste and support reuse, recycling, and more sustainable use of materials.
Contact
Email: circulareconomy@gov.scot
Post:
Circular Economy Division
3H South
Victoria Quay
Edinburgh
EH6 6QQ