New Quality Protocol Launched

4 October 2010

The Pulverised Fuel Ash Quality Protocol (QP) has been launched setting end of waste criteria for the production and use of pulverised fuel ash (PFA) and furnace bottom ash (FBA) arising from the combustion of coal to be used in bound materials and grout applications.

The QP, which is the ninth launch by the Waste Protocol Project, has significant benefits including diverting an estimated 3,128,000 tonnes, of what is the UK's largest industrial waste-stream, from landfill and, following the Financial Impact Assessments of introducing the QP, approximately £110m has been forecast as potential benefit to the UK economy over the first ten years.

Martin Brocklehurst, head of Environment and Business Partnerships, Environment Agency said: "We are delighted to have worked with DEFRA, WRAP and the power industry to agree an end of waste position for pulverised fuel ash. This is a classic example of better risk-based regulation in action. Our regulatory decision is based on real scientific evidence that indicates this material can be safely used as a product. The quality protocol standard ensures that both human health and the environment are safeguarded and that this valuable material can be reprocessed into a quality product which can be re-used, rather than buried in landfill."

As PFA and FBA are currently defined as 'wastes' under the EU Waste Framework Directive (2006/12/EC), end users must conform to waste management regulations and purchase special permits to use these materials in construction and manufacturing. This will no longer be the case for PFA produced to Quality Protocol Standards.

Dr. Mervyn Jones, head of Production & Procurement, WRAP commented: "Conforming to the new Quality Protocol removes the waste stigma associated with PFA and FBA. It enables better regulation, ensures consistent quality and will stimulate market confidence. These factors will all help the industry grow existing markets for this quality recycled material."