Why compost?
- Contributes to the reduction of landfill waste
- Competitive alternative to landfill
- Sustainable method of dealing with organic waste
- Produces a valuable source of organic matter otherwise lost from the natural environment
- Provides a peat replacement in horticulture and gardening
UK Waste Reduction Targets
- By 2010 to reduce biodegradable waste by 25%
- By 2013 to reduce biodegradable waste by 50%
- By 2020 to reduce biodegradable waste by 75%
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Composting continues to play an increasing role within the waste management industry - growing on average by 25% a year. According to a recent report from WRAP, production of high-quality compost is set to increase fourfold in the next two to three years.
How much waste?
More than 400 million tonnes of waste are produced in the UK each year - 106 million tonnes from households, business and industry. The remainder (300 million tonnes) is made up of construction and demolition wastes, mining and agricultural wastes, sewage sludge and dredged spoils. Most waste currently ends up in landfill sites, but around 35% of UK industrial and commercial waste and 12% of household waste is recycled or composted. However this is one of the lowest rates in Europe.
A changing waste management industry
The waste management industry in the UK is currently developing very quickly.
Changes in the structure of the industry itself, the introduction of new legislation (affecting disposal options), the emergence of new technologies and practices in both waste disposal and recovery, and the rising tide of public awareness are all changing the face of waste management.
• Reduction • Re-use • Recovery
Before starting up
- Planning permission must be obtained for the development of any site from your local county council, under the Town and Country Planning Act 1994.
- An environmental assessment, detailed site plans and a written working plan must be drawn up.
- Some sites require a Waste Management Licence from the Environment Agency.
Legislation is constantly changing so it is important that you check with the relevant authorities at all times.
Legislation and Regulation
European and National legislation is having a real impact on waste management practises and has prompted a major expansion of the composting industry over recent years. Under the EU Landfill Directive, the UK must reduce the amount of biodegradable municipal waste sent to landfill - otherwise it faces fines of up to £180m per year.
The management of waste in the United Kingdom is largely controlled through a legislative framework, governed by the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and enforced by the Environment Agency. This determines where, how and what can be recycled. The national waste strategy for the UK is laid out in the Government's Waste Strategy 2000.
With composting playing an increasing role in local authorities' recycling standards, and new standards and regulations being enforced, it is vital for composters to be continually updated to ensure good practice.
With over 10 years experience at ORL, we fully understand the processes surrounding the control of waste disposal and can help you work your way through the necessary Authorities and Agencies.
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