One year on from the implementation of new rules on hazardous waste, businesses in the East of England are being reminded that free, confidential help is available to tackle the demands of this legislation.
New regulations came into force in July 2005, expanding the list of waste materials classified as hazardous and introducing new controls for their movement. As a result, many of the region's businesses became handlers of hazardous waste for the first time. Even common items such as televisions, computer monitors and fluorescent lighting tubes were re-classed as hazardous.
However, it is likely that many smaller firms have yet to fully implement the required changes to their waste management procedures and are seeking further support, says Envirowise Regional Manager for the East of England, Kate Haigh.
"The 'co-disposal' of hazardous and non-hazardous waste destined for landfill has been banned since July 2004. Then last year's regulations expanded the range of waste types classed as hazardous, putting an increased emphasis on the correct segregation and disposal of waste," says Kate.
"Ultimately, all businesses producing hazardous waste must ensure they are demonstrating what's called 'duty of care' by safely disposing or recovering the waste they produce. And this is where Envirowise can help, by providing specialist advice on waste minimisation and management techniques. Eligible companies could even benefit from an on-site resource efficiency visit (available in Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland) from an experienced adviser.
"With items such as computers we would urge companies to always consider options for re-use or recycling, before disposal. A good place to start is IT for Charities which provides a list of organisations which recycle PCs."
Smaller businesses involved in the metals, motor vehicles, machinery, chemicals, construction or photographic sectors are also encouraged to consider participation in the
HAZRED project which aims to identify sector-specific solutions to reducing hazardous waste.
See the relevant Envirowise website sections for more information on dealing with Hazardous Waste or developing an Environmental Management System, or call the confidential Envirowise Advice Line on 0800 585 794.
- Ends -
Issued on behalf of Envirowise by Harrison Cowley. Media Contacts: Lucy Rickett or Kate Sturley at Harrison Cowley on 0117 929 2311.
Notes to Editors
About Envirowise
Envirowise delivers a valuable programme of confidential advice to UK businesses. This advice enables businesses to improve profitability and reduce environmental impact.
Independent, practical and proven guidance is available through the Envirowise Advice Line, information resources delivered by a national team of expert advisors. Each solution is driven by the specific needs of individual firms, to genuinely improve their business practices, profitability and competitiveness. Since 1994, Envirowise has helped UK industry save £1 billion.
The Envirowise programme is available to any UK business, completely free of charge. For more information explore the Envirowise website or call 0800 585 794.
About Hazardous Waste
For the latest information on Hazardous Waste legislation please visit NetRegs. Details of approved landfill sites which accept hazardous waste materials are also available on the Environment Agency website.