The Environment Agency today (Wednesday) reminded businesses and industry of the changes in landfilling waste that come into play from 30 October 2007.
Liz Parkes, Head of Waste at the Environment Agency, said: "The changes to the rules mean waste must be treated before it is landfilled, and all liquid wastes will be banned from landfills.
"For businesses who produce or manage waste this means you will have to review how you deal with it. If your waste does go to landfill, check to see if it is already being treated. If it isn't you will need to treat it or ensure that your waste management company does this for you. If you produce liquid waste that goes to landfill, you will need to speak to your waste management company about alternative options.
"We've been working to raise awareness of these changes with business and the waste management industry. As well as producing comprehensive guidance, we've working with relevant trade bodies to produce a series of factsheets for specific sectors."
There are many easy ways for business to treat waste and deliver real environmental improvements. Much of the waste we send to landfill is already treated, however for some wastes more effort is needed. Treatment can be as simple as separating the waste on site, and recycling one or more of the separated components.
The Environment Agency is responsible for regulating landfills, waste and water treatment facilities and large industrial processes. It will monitor compliance with these new rules during its normal programme of site inspections and detailed audits, as well as during visits to waste producers. Feedback from industry on how the new rules are bedding-in will enable us to identify any sectors which need additional help to bring them into compliance.
Liz Parkes added: "These changes, which are being introduced under the Landfill Directive, aim to help reduce our dependency on landfill, as well as improve the environmental standards for the wastes that continue to be landfilled.
"Our approach is to concentrate on advising waste producers that they need to adapt their waste management practice. We'll also encourage them to see the opportunity this offers to improve their environmental performance as these changes are for the good of our environment."
For more information about the changes under the Landfill Directive, and to download the guidance and factsheets, visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/landfilldirective or contact the Environment Agency on 08708 506 506.