Waste is hazardous when it contains substances or has properties that might make it harmful to human health or the environment.
Over 5 million tonnes of hazardous waste is produced every year in England and Wales, half of which is buried in landfill sites. European Union legislation introduced in July 2004 means that hazardous waste can no longer be disposed of alongside non-hazardous waste. This new directive has subsequently reduced the number of sites that can accept hazardous waste.
The term ‘hazardous’ does not always mean that such waste is immediately toxic, though some can be. By improving the way in which we manage all wastes classified as hazardous we reduce the risk they might pose now and in the future.
Up until now the list has included substances such as chemicals, asbestos and other toxic materials. However, the European Commission has recently revised its list of hazardous wastes and incorporated these revisions into the European Waste Catalogue, which defines all waste by type.
The revised list includes a number wastes not previously considered to be hazardous. Some examples of these include:
- Asbestos
- Fridge/Freezers
- Batteries
- Gas Cylinders
- Pressurised Containers
- Paint
- Oils
- Fluorescent Tubes
- Liquids of any description
We work closely with the Environment Agency, developing practical solutions to help businesses cope with the safe disposal of hazardous waste.
Ward Recycling can offer FREE advice to householders and businesses.
Please contact our hazardous waste team if you have any of the above or you need advice on the correct procedure to comply with current legislation. Either call 0345 337 5050 or email [email protected].
Download our hazardous waste guide and stay safe with Ward