In 2020 guidance, the Agency stated that microwaves, as well as heaters and fans, contained high levels of persistent organic pollutant (POPs), so they should be sent to treatment facilities. This is usually done by high temperature incineration.
The environmental regulator is currently preparing to enforce the guidance with respect to loads of large domestic appliances made from HWRCs that have been processed in non-hazardous metallic shredders.
The British Metals Recycling Association published a statement on February 4th, stating that the Environment Agency had reminded the Association that mixed loads must contain only cookers, washing machines and dryers.
If any other items of Category 1 electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) are present, such as fans, microwaves, heaters, or electrical heaters, this material stream should be considered POPs Waste.
The BMRA stated that the Agency had accepted that any necessary changes would not occur overnight.
The environmental regulator expects that operators in the supply chain implement urgent measures to ensure that these items are properly managed.
The BMRA is the trade association representing the UK’s metals recycling industry. It represents more than 270 organizations.
Compliance
The BMRA stated that if the Agency discovers non-compliance, they will inform the BMRA and the environmental regulator will follow their enforcement and sanction policy. This policy includes advice and guidance as well as more severe sanctions.
According to the BMRA, the Agency will consider where operators can show they are on their way to compliance.
Responsibility
A spokesperson for Environment Agency stated that letsrecycle.comIt had provided guidance on how POPs in WEEE should be managed in 2020 after extensive monitoring.
The waste producer is responsible for determining if their waste material contains any POPs.
- Environment Agency spokesperson
On 31 July 2020, the grace period for the guidance was ended. This means that those who do not comply with the guidance could be penalised. letsrecycle.com story).
The spokesperson said letsrecycle.comYesterday (9 February) – It is the waste producer’s responsibility to determine if their waste material contains any POPs.
This information should help others to determine the best disposal route.
We keep the guidance under review, and work to ensure that all industry members are aware.
POPs
POPs can be potentially dangerous organic substances that can cause harm to the environment and human health.
POPs, such as bromine, were used in plastic for some electric items including CRT screen casings because of their flame-retardant properties.
Waste containing higher levels of POPs than the Environment Agency limits cannot be recycled. It must be destroyed.
A landfill ban on some sofas and soft seating was finally implemented in November after the Agency published an investigation into the presence POPs in domestic waste seating. letsrecycle.com story).
Similar link
Identify and dispose off waste containing persistent organic pollutants
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