The programme, launched this month by the government's environmental department, could be used to determine any new policies that the UK makes in meeting its EU target for reducing waste.

The research will include a focus on how to best measure the carbon impacts of waste prevention and management, according to a strategy document.

The study will also look at whether producer responsibility gives the right incentives for product design and waste prevention, re-use and recycling, the environmental impacts of biodegradable and degradable packaging, collection methods, and the trends that are slowing waste growth rates.

"Research helps to inform new waste policies, so projects cover short, medium and long-term time scales depending on the specific needs of the policy area," Department for environment, food and rural affairs (Defra) stated in putting out a call to universities and other institutions.

Many projects from the first programme set up in 2004 have reported findings, whereas other recently commissioned projects remain ongoing

This is the second Defra waste and resources research programme. Since its start in 2004, the programme has funded about 80 projects, with a budget of up to £5m a year.

The Waste and Resources Evidence Strategy 2007-2011 is published at www.defra.gov.uk/environment/waste/wip/research/index.htm.