Changes to the way that non-hazardous wastes destined for landfill are dealt with, will come into force from 30 October 2007. The changes are requirements of the Landfill Directive.
From that date liquid wastes will be banned from landfill and non-hazardous wastes must be treated before being deposited in landfill. This effectively makes all wastes treatable, as hazardous wastes are already subject to treatment.
The Landfill Directive aims to reduce the negative effects of landfilling wastes, by reducing the amount of waste landfilled, treating waste that is landfilled and by improving the design and operation of landfill sites. Much of the Directive’s requirements are already in place including those relating to hazardous wastes.
The Environment Agency says that it is the right time for waste producers and landfill operators to talk about how they will adapt to these new changes. On its part, the Agency is to focus helping businesses take simple steps to improve the way they waste is managed.
"For businesses who produce or manage contaminated soils this means you will have to review how you manage your waste. If your waste does go to landfill, check to see if it is already being treated. If it isn't you will need to treat it or ensure that your waste management company does this for you"
Liz Parkes, Head of Waste at the Environment Agency
The Agency has published a number of guides and factsheets to the changes, which are available on the organisation’s website.
The latest guide to be issued relates to the treatment of soils where currently contaminated soils that are hazardous need to be treated before sent to landfill. However from 30th October 2007, the new rules mean all contaminated soils, whether hazardous or non-hazardous, must be treated before they are landfilled.
The Environment Agency has been working with members of the waste sector and industry to explain what needs to be done. This work resulted in the production of a fact sheet that can be obtained from the Agency’s website.
Liz Parkes, Head of Waste at the Environment Agency said:
"For businesses who produce or manage contaminated soils this means you will have to review how you manage your waste. If your waste does go to landfill, check to see if it is already being treated. If it isn't you will need to treat it or ensure that your waste management company does this for you.
"There are many easy ways for these businesses to treat waste and deliver real environmental improvements. Much of the waste we send to landfill is already treated, however for some wastes more effort is needed. Treatment can simply be separating the waste on site, and recycling one or more of the separated components."
(Photo: Scottish Executive - Crown © 2007)