Waste protocols which will define when ten waste streams cease to be waste are currently being developed by the Environment Agency and the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP). These will identify production procedures and product standards which operators should use to process wastes to a condition in which they could be classified as products. It is hoped these protocols will enable both regulators and material purchasers to be assured that recycled materials can be used in the same way as virgin materials, without compromising quality, performance or environmental standards. This should mean less need to obtain waste management licences and registered exemptions.
The ten waste streams selected include, non-packaging plastics and wood, organics, contaminated spoils that have been washed or stabilised, tyres and glass.
