Pending ban on Gypsum-Based Materials from Biodegradable Waste Cells

The Landfill Regulations (England and Wales) 2002 were introduced in July 2002, and following a phased implementation will continue to bring major changes to landfill disposal throughout the implementation schedule. These regulations represent the implementation of the European Landfill Directive and are intended to harmonise landfill practices across Europe. The main impacts will stem from the following changes:

• Reclassification of landfill sites and ban on co-disposal of wastes;
• Total bans on the landfilling of certain wastes;
• Wastes for disposal via landfill will require treatment before disposal;
• Additional waste acceptance criteria.

The publication of a series of consultation papers by DEFRA and the Environment Agency has highlighted a number of significant impacts relating to the landfilling of gypsum-based wastes, including plasterboard. From 16th July 2005, the disposal of gypsum-based wastes will be restricted to specific dedicated mono cells, at non hazardous sites, providing complete segregation from any biodegradable wastes to prevent unacceptable emissions from landfill sites, particularly the release of hydrogen sulphide gas. Best practice to ensure the separate disposal of gypsum-based wastes will be through on-site segregation at source.

These changes will inevitably lead to a substantial increase in waste disposal costs and a reduction in the availability of landfill facilities able to accept gypsum-based wastes over the next twelve to eighteen months. In conjunction with the forthcoming increases in Landfill Tax, the Government intends this to be the driver to encourage waste producers to produce less waste; recover more value from waste, for example through recycling or composting; and to use more environmentally friendly methods of waste disposal. A managed systems approach is essential to achieve this.

Secondary benefits of adopting this approach include more orderly and organised developments, leading to safer working conditions. This also acts to satisfy clients and develop business through building a good reputation for site safety, cleanliness and environmental performance.