The IEMA are not planning to respond to this consultation. We have included it on our consultation webpages for information. If any Member wishes to respond to the consultation, please do so following the instructions provided on the web-link to Defra's consultation page at the end of this article.

The aggregates sector’s activities reach across areas of strategic importance for Defra: operating in rural communities; in landscapes of natural beauty; in sensitive ecosystems; and in the marine environment; consuming energy onsite; and for delivery transport; and seeking to use multiple material streams to ensure sustainable use of resources. A further three years of ALSF funding brings with it a significant opportunity to align more fully with Defra’s objectives, achieving gains in the environmental performance of the aggregates sector and, at the same time, informing practice more widely across the economy.

The proposals outlined in this consultation document envisage building on the successes of the Fund so far, the stakeholder involvement that has developed and on the industry’s commitment to environmental improvement. In doing this it aims to help establish the sector as a leader in these areas of strategic importance not only in the shorter term but also in preparing for the challenges of living within environmental limits in the longer term. The funding available will be £24m per year and this document covers our proposals for £21m of this funding. The remaining £3m per year will be used for activities identified during the years the ALSF operates.

For further information, please refer to Defra's website:

http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/alsf-08/index.htm