Hazardous Waste

Waste is hazardous when it contains substances or has properties that might make it harmful to human health or the environment.

The term 'hazardous' does not always mean that such waste is immediately toxic, though some can be. By improving the way in which we manage all wastes classified as hazardous we reduce the risk they might pose now and in the future.

Up until now the list has included substances such as chemicals, asbestos and other toxic materials. However, the European Commission has recently revised its list of hazardous wastes and incorporated these revisions into the European Waste Catalogue, which defines all waste by type.

The revised list includes a number things not previously considered to be hazardous. Some examples of these include:

• Fluorescent tubes
• Televisions & computer monitors
• Scrap cars
• Batteries

Over 5 million tonnes of hazardous waste is produced every year in England and Wales, half of which is buried in land fill sites. European Union legislation introduced in July 2004 means that hazardous waste can no longer be disposed of alongside non-hazardous waste. This new directive has subsequently dramatically reduced the number of sites that can accept hazardous waste.

Ward Recycling are one of only 10 waste management companies nationwide approved by the European Union to handle and process hazardous waste.

We work closely with the Environment Agency, developing practical solutions to help businesses cope with the safe disposal of hazardous waste.

Ward Recycling are also specialists in Land Remediation, removing soils from land contaminated with oils, fuels, chemicals and acids to help restore the ecological balance on brown field sites.

Ward Recycling can offer free advice to householders and businesses.

Please contact us: hazardous@wardrecycling.com or speak to us on 0845 337 0000