Emma Reynolds Appointed Defra Secretary Amidst Circular Economy Strategy Rollout

Emma Reynolds MP has been appointed Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in the September 2025 cabinet reshuffle, succeeding Steve Reed who has moved to the Housing brief. Reynolds, who is the MP for Wycombe and former Economic Secretary to the Treasury, will now oversee a pivotal phase for Defra as it prepares to publish its Circular Economy Strategy this autumn.

The new strategy is expected to set out a comprehensive roadmap for the transition to circularity, covering priority sectors including plastics, chemicals, construction, textiles, food, and transport. This follows extensive engagement with industry, NGOs and local authorities earlier this year.

With the challenges to the packaging recycling sector more obvious than ever, the drive for intervention and change has never been so important.

Stakeholder response to Reynolds’ appointment has been broadly positive, with many welcoming her track record in economics and policymaking. Industry groups have underlined the importance of continuity and momentum, particularly as Defra faces significant delivery pressures in areas such as pEPR, Simpler Recycling, DRS, wider circular economy reforms and needed to tackle current market challenges.

With Mary Creagh also joining the Defra ministerial team, there is optimism that the department will remain ambitious on green jobs, recycling infrastructure, and sustainable resource management.

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