Dealing with Waste and Recycling

Disposal of waste materials produced by your business is regulated by law.

Some waste that is classified as “hazardous” is further regulated under the Hazardous/Special Waste Regulations. By definition, hazardous waste is potentially harmful to humans or the environment.

It is not always obvious whether or not particular waste is hazardous, for example, it may depend on levels of concentration. Hazardous waste can often be identified from Material Safety Data Sheets. In less obvious cases it may be necessary to call in the waste regulator or a specialist contractor.

Examples of waste that is clearly hazardous include:

• Asbestos
• Electrical equipment such as computers or televisions that contain hazardous components
• Batteries
• Fluorescent tubes
• Solvents, certain chemicals and pesticides

Other forms of waste that are subject to their own specific regulations are:

• Animal waste products
• Scrap motor vehicles
• Radioactive substances

Avoiding waste in the first place not only avoids the costs of disposal but also reduces the number of regulations that apply to your business, which usually represents even more cost savings.

If waste cannot be avoided, the next best option is to recycle as much as possible. Nothing should be written off as not being suitable for recycling without first making enquiries. In fact, uses can often be found for materials that have traditionally been discarded in landfill, resulting in the waste having a cash value.

There is an extensive list of readily recyclable waste that applies to most businesses, for example:

• Computer Equipment, Faxes, Printers and the consumables they use such as ink cartridges and toners
• Metal containers such as aerosols and drink cans
• Waste materials such as paper, wood, plastics, glass, textiles
• Liquid waste such as chemicals, oils, paints, solvents, cleaners
• Electrical appliances, lamps, mobile phones,
• Vehicle tyres and batteries

The message then is, avoid creating waste in the first place or at least minimise it. If it is inevitable look for ways in which it can be recycled or reused. Finally, if it has to be discarded, ensure you comply with all relevant regulations so as to avoid hefty penalties.

We offer a range of environmental training courses to support our services. In particular, see the overview for:

• Waste Management Tools and Techniques
• Waste Management in Construction

See Reference pages for information on Legislation / Glossary / Weblinks