Institute signs joint letter urging Defra to publish Circular Economy Growth Plan

In May 2026, the Environmental Policy Forum (EPF) wrote to Emma Reynolds MP, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. The EPF is a coalition of 17 professional bodies and learned societies, including the Institute, that promote environmental sustainability and resilience for the public benefit.

What we are calling for:

In the letter, signed by 13 EPF member organisations working across disciplines, we urged the publication of the Circular Economy Growth Plan as soon as possible. We also ask to meet with the Secretary of State to discuss how we can support next steps, underpinned by the EPF’s extensive network of professionals and collective access to a wealth of expertise relevant to the successful transition to a circular economy.

“EPF are deeply concerned about the ongoing delays to the Circular Economy Growth Plan. The transition to greater circularity and resource efficiency is urgently needed to unlock the UK’s economic potential, supporting job creation, investment and sustained growth. Keeping resources in circulation at their highest value for as long as possible not only protects vital environmental assets from degradation but also increases the resilience of UK supply chains. In this increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape, ensuring reliable access to the resources our economy and society need is key to national security.” – from the EPF letter

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