The introduction of the National Waste Strategy in spring 2007 followed a period of unprecedented transformation in waste management. For the majority of industrial waste producers, disposal of untreated waste to landfill is no longer an option. The Landfill Directive introduced duties to treat, test and describe all waste destined for landfill. Local authorities must meet stringent targets for the diversion of biodegradable municipal waste from landfill into recycling and recovery. They are rising to the challenge but must make difficult choices between different treatment and energy recovery technologies.
The most onerous duties apply to producers of hazardous wastes. We will explain how to assess whether a waste is hazardous and describe the duties which apply to hazardous waste transport and disposal, outlining the additional requirements for healthcare wastes.
The restrictions on landfilling are intended to shift wastes toward more sustainable options, such as recovery, recycling and minimisation. This emphasis is being strengthened by the new Waste Framework Directive which introduced a broader life cycle approach. We will look at the ways in which the Government is encouraging sustainable waste management, and the various options and incentives available.
Producer responsibility has been extended to cover new waste streams such as batteries and farm plastics. The scheme for packaging continues to develop, with new targets for the next decade. All industrial and commercial waste producers have been affected by the WEEE Regulations which require them to take responsibility for the recovery of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The seminar will explain the practicalities of compliance with all these producer responsibility measures.
For many waste producers and companies, export of recyclable waste is the most economic option. The regulation of transfrontier shipments has been tightened to prevent abuses, and this trend will continue as the Duty of Care is reviewed and revised.
During 2010 new Regulations will come into force which add new elements to the waste producer’s Duty of Care. Further changes will be introduced as the system of exemptions is overhauled. We will summarise the new system, highlighting the major changes.
This seminar will ensure that you are fully up to date with all the latest legislative developments in waste management.