New Guidance From Defra On ApplyingThe Waste Hierarchy

23 June 2011

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has published its guidance for businesses and organisations seeking to adhere to the waste hierarchy

The Guidance emphasises ways in which adopting the waste hierarchy in day-to-day activities, such as by selling or donating unwanted items and cutting food waste, can be financially beneficial within both public and private sector organisations.

Article 4 of the Revised Waste Framework Directive (rWFD), defines the Waste Hierarchy, with waste prevention being the first preference, followed by; preparing for reuse; recycling; other recovery; and disposal. A summary document published alongside the Guidance gives Member States the option to divert from the Hierarchy in specific cases, provided the diversion can be justified on lifecycle grounds.

One area not covered by the Guidance, hazardous waste, will be subject to a separate Strategy for Hazardous Waste Management in England, which is being prepared by Defra in conjunction with the Environment Agency.

To see the full guidance CLICK HERE

Helen Amos