A new waste classification and assessment process was introduced by The Environment Agency on June 1st.

Businesses which produce general waste or who use Cawleys for the management or disposal of specialist or hazardous waste streams, may be wondering what impact this may have on them.

What impact will it have?

From our customers perspective the changes from the Environment Agency in its waste classification and assessment framework WM3 need have little or no impact of them.

It is important for the safe handling, coordination and management of waste within every European country that we share a common understanding and language for defining different products and chemical substances. It helps ensure uniformly highly levels of safety and responsibility, to minimise the environmental impact of our activities.

Helping introduce a truly circular economy

Being clear on the specific definition of some products is a great benefit in helping to introduce a truly circular economy where products can be re-used and recycled as often and efficiently as possible.

The way some substances are classified and defined is what has changed with the new waste classification and assessment process, which will not affect the way the waste is handled or the service you receive from Cawleys.

Very specific waste streams

The changes being proposed relate largely to very specific hazardous waste streams and particular chemicals and their compounds. These niche, often hazardous waste streams are dealt with at Cawleys by our specialist division, HazSolve, lead by Sean and Alan.

Any member of the team can apply the correct definitions for you and help ensure you are fully compliant and confident in applying the appropriate definition and processes.

You can find more details about the definition and classification changes on the Environment Agency website. The main difference will be a change from H (Hazard codes) to HP (Hazardous Property) codes, which will affect a very few waste sources such as filtercakes, and some irritants that may become corrosive. There is also a new criteria for Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs).

Industry best practice

As part of Cawleys ongoing professionalism and commitment to industry best practice, we are always abreast of new legislation and industry guidelines. You can be reassured we will be applying the latest requirements relating to any of the waste management services which we provide for you.