Better rules needed for disposal
of inert waste in England
Possible changes to the rules
for dealing with brick, concrete, hardcore, subsoil and other inert waste
from the construction, demolition and excavation industries (C&D),
are published for informal consultation. The aim is to adopt a more proportionate
and risk-based approach to its recovery and disposal. The
Government’s Waste Strategy 2007 supported increased efficiency
in the use of construction, demolition and excavation materials, but recognized
a continued role for inert waste in restoring exhausted mineral workings.
The Government committed in the Strategy to consult on options for reform
of inert waste regulation.
Defra and the Environment Agency have worked with the industry led Landfill
Inert Waste Sub-Group to develop possible ways forward, and responses to
the discussion paper will help to shape final proposals.
Comments are requested on the following:
- Greater use of derogations from some of the Landfill Directive
controls that are provided for inert waste;
- The need for a level playing field for the different activities
involving inert waste;
- Revised guidance on the testing of inert wastes that are landfilled;
- Inconsistencies in terminology for describing inert waste going
to landfill; and
- The quality of guidance, including classifying an activity
as recovery or disposal.
The informal consultation reflects recommendations
from Lord Davidson’s
report of November 2006 on reducing or simplifying unnecessary regulation.
It also takes account of a position statement by the Quarry Products Association
in June 2006, setting out industry concern about the level of regulation.
|
