This consultation seeks views on proposed primary legislation to help implement Zero Waste. None of the proposed measures would take effect until secondary legislation - regulations - are made. There will be full consultation on any such regulations before they are enacted.

Up until now, most waste legislation in Scotland has been designed to prevent pollution and protect animal health. The new proposals contained in this consultation focus on the resource implications of waste and seek to encourage waste reduction and recycling. The proposals come from a variety of sources: experience in other countries; existing voluntary work and the Zero Waste Think Tank. They have been informed by discussions with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities.