New rules for the export of recyclable waste
New rules affecting the export of waste for recycling such as paper, cardboard and certain types of plastic and metal come into force on July 12.
The new rules set out by the European Commission mainly affect businesses which export what is known as “green list” waste. Green list is used to describe the clean single types of waste that pose little risk to the environment and can be legitimately exported to countries that want them for recycling.
Millions of tonnes of recyclable materials are shipped overseas every year. This is a legitimate and growing trade for these types of waste which are viewed as valuable resources in many countries.
From 12 July it will be the responsibility of recyclable waste exporters to check that the country they are exporting to is happy to receive the recyclable waste and if so, under what conditions.
The new rules are complex and the Environment Agency are providing clear, simple guidance to the many Green List waste exporters and shipping companies who will be affected by the new regulations.
“We are aware that some countries haven’t yet confirmed to the Commission what waste they will accept after 12 July. However, we are working with Government, exporters and shipping brokers to make sure that legitimate green list waste can continue to be exported to countries who still want it.
Under existing rules many types of low hazard waste can be freely exported to many countries to be recycled under what are known as “Green List” regulations.
After the 12 July the Green list regulations are changing. Businesses will need to check if the waste they are planning to export is:
- Prohibited
- Notifiable - proposed movement of waste must be pre-notified to the relevant authorities in all concerned countries and prior written permission obtained before the waste is moved.
- Green List - proposed movements don’t need to be pre-notified and don’t need prior permission before going ahead but do need to comply with specified information and contract requirements.
Some of the rules coming in on the 12 July also affect businesses that import or export hazardous waste, or ship non-hazardous wastes to non-OECD countries. Notification controls apply in these situations, which means applying to the Environment Agency with the relevant fee and putting a financial guarantee in place to make sure enough money is available to deal with the waste if things go wrong, including the cost of returning the waste to the UK.
Source www.environment-agency.gov.uk (accessed 01/08/07)
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