Due to expanding waste flows, including those of a hazardous type, and increasingly limited space, issues associated with waste have become increasingly challenging.  To meet this challenge, policy measures have been introduced at the EU level, as well as at the national level, with the intention of mitigating the problem.  The overarching aim of much policy intervention is to encourage the use of what is known as the “4 Rs” strategy of the waste hierarchy: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Recover.

The Waste Framework Directive provides a general framework for management requirements in this area and sets the basic waste management definitions for the EU.  Decision 2000/532/EC establishes the classification system for wastes, including a distinction between hazardous and non-hazardous.  Regulation (EC) No 1013/2006 on shipments of waste specifies under which conditions shipping is allowed to take place between countries.  Other key pieces of legislation include the Landfill Directive, the Waste Incineration Directive and the Port Reception Facilities Directive.

RPA’s work covers many aspects of waste and waste management and we carry out various studies for the European Commission, amongst others.  Most of these studies require consultation with a diverse range of key stakeholders and waste management associations. 

In terms of the social, business and economic impacts of waste management policies, we work with both industry and governments to deliver cost-effective waste management policies.  Here, for example, we have undertaken feasibility studies on introducing a certification scheme/standard for recycling treatment facilities and on introducing instruments to prevent marine littering.  We also assess the impacts of waste related legislation and changes to that regulation. 

Our work here includes evaluation of the impacts of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directives on innovation, producer responsibility and on the employment effects of different waste management policies.   Our team of experts have also assessed the impacts from different options for the revision of the Sewage Sludge Directive and on the appropriateness and efficacy of alternative policy, fiscal, educational and voluntary actions that may be considered to prevent or reduce impacts from hazardous waste. 

If you would like further information, please contact our experts below.