China waste clampdown could create UK cardboard recycling chaos, say industry experts

New Chinese restrictions on imported waste could see millions of tonnes of cardboard being sent back, as the UK struggles to prepare for rapid rule changesImminent restrictions by the Chinese on importing millions of tonnes of waste from the rest of the world are likely to cause chaos in the UK in the coming weeks, according to a leading recycling expert.From 1 January, China is banning the importation of all plastic waste and mixed paper rubbish from all over the world. The Chinese will accept other waste exports, including cardboard, but are imposing much stricter quality regulations as part of president Xi Jinping's drive to create a "beautiful China" with a clean environment. Continue reading...