Environment Agency launches online waste assessment tool
New self-assessment tool designed to help businesses be more resource efficient
A NEW online waste assessment tool to help businesses be more resource efficient by putting their waste back to work has been launched by the Environment Agency, Rijkswaterstaat (the Netherlands’ Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment), and several waste and resource sector organizations.
The ‘IsItWaste’ tool will help businesses in England to check whether a waste or surplus material is a by-product or product status has been reached, and therefore whether the component/material can be reused in a new product. The web tool provides a step-by-step approach that takes users through key decision stages, including material composition, risk assessment, product use and end markets.
The aim is to remove high-quality waste-derived products from the scope of waste legislation to improve end market demand and confidence, and allow businesses to be more resource efficient and competitive.
Commenting on the launch of the new online waste assessment tool, Environment Agency chief executive Paul Leinster said: ‘The IsitWaste tool helps businesses navigate a complex area of legislation as they seek to transform their waste into useful products. This has environmental and economic benefits.’
The web tool has been developed as part of the EU LIFE+ funded EQual (Ensuring Quality of waste-derived products) programme, which aims to support and promote the re-use and recycling of waste materials while protecting health and the environment.
