New route map to help councils comply with the Waste Framework Directive

24th April 2014

We have previously reported on the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations which implement the European Waste Framework Directive. They require that, as from January 2015, there must be separate collections for paper, metal, plastic and glass where “technically, environmentally and economically practicable” (or TEEP as it is often known).

Initially we were hoping for guidance from the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC), but DECC decided not to produce any. The industry therefore got together and held seminars, at which we spoke, discussing the likely TEEP requirements. Following this, a working group coordinated through the London Waste and Recycling Board (LWARB), the Waste Network Chairs (WNC), and WRAP has now developed this route map which takes local authorities through a step-by-step process to help them decide whether they need to change their recycling collection service before January or not.

We envisage this route map will be a useful tool for local waste collection authorities in assessing whether and how they need to change the way they collect recycling materials. It comes with appendices giving more detail on the precise wording of the legislation and a Resources Pack with useful links.

Once a collection authority has followed the route map to a decision it may need to implement changes to its contracts or, if significant, re-procure collection, transfer, sorting or recycling services. The segregation of waste to comply with the Regulations may also impact existing long term treatment and disposal contracts which may include requirements as to the nature and manner of presentation of waste streams and or tonnage requirements if the segregated waste is to be sold directly into the market.

Please contact Ben Sheppard in the Energy, Infrastructure and Government team for advice and support.