Why the change?

Since the publication of the Landfill Directive in 2002, the countries of the EU have had to make changes to the way they dispose of wastes in landfill sites.

Under past changes we are no longer allowed to landfill waste tyres or accept mix hazardous and non-hazardous wastes at landfills, for instance.

The latest regulations to come into force – on 30 October 2007 – concern liquid wastes and the pre-treatment of wastes destined for landfill (known as the Pre-Treatment Regulations). From that date:

  • All non-hazardous waste has to be pre-treated before it can be disposed of in a landfill
  • Non-hazardous liquids can no longer be sent to landfill

The objective is to reduce the impact of waste that is sent to landfill and to increase the amount of waste that is recovered and recycled. There are convincing studies which show significant economic benefits, as well environmental benefits, can be gained by increasing recycling.

The effect of the new pre-treatment regulations is that virtually all waste producers in the UK must now demonstrate that their wastes have been pre-treated before they can be sent to landfill.

The main exceptions relate to:

  1. Municipal Wastes. Local authorities already have to meet demanding targets in respect of increased recycling, recovery and landfill diversion
  2. Certain construction wastes that are unsuitable for pre-treatment as defined under the new regulations.

If you’re based in Scotland the pre-treatment regulations apply differently – visit our pre-treatment Scotland website for more information.

Need help filling in your Pre-Treatment Form?

click here