Each year, of the 400 million tonnes of solid materials used in the construction industry, only two-thirds is added to the building stock - the rest is consigned to landfill.

Also, an increasing amount of construction waste is illegally dumped or fly-tipped. As waste controls tighten there is an increased risk of companies inadvertently employing illegal waste operatives.

Powers were included in the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 for regulations requiring a site waste management plan (SWMP) for works involving construction or demolition waste. Following the voluntary code of practice launched by DTI in 2004, Defra has developed proposals for compulsory site waste management plans in England. (A similar consultation is expected in Wales later in the year.) SWMPs aim both to reduce fly-tipping and to promote the potential resource savings from minimising waste.

The consultation package includes an explanation of the proposals, a partial regulatory impact assessment and draft regulations. Views are invited from all those with an interest in the construction industry and protecting the environment from waste crime.

The closing date for responses is 9 July 2007. Further information is available from: http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/construction-sitewaste/index.htm

Source: www.defra.gov.uk (accessed 03/04/07)

For more information on our waste management course visit our website or call one of our advisors on 01565 724200.

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