Consultation on increased recycling of PFA and FBA
A CONSULTATION has been launched this week by the Waste Protocols Project, a joint Environment Agency and WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme) initiative, to get views on a Quality Protocol for the reuse of ashes from power generation. The protocol aims to increase their use in the construction industry and divert millions of tonnes of waste from landfill.
Funded by Defra, the draft ‘Quality Protocol for the production of Pulverized Fuel Ash and Furnace Bottom Ash for use in Construction and Manufacturing’ aims to reduce the environmental impact and boost the commercial marketability of these materials.
It is believed that by removing the waste label and providing a quality guarantee, it will be easier to market pulverized fuel ash (PFA) and furnace bottom ash (FBA) as substitutes for virgin materials.
Over the next three months, the Environment Agency and WRAP would like all interested stakeholders (including manufacturers currently using or interested in using PFA and FBA) to take part in the consultation. Their opinions will be taken into account when the final version of the Quality Protocol is published.
Each year, around 7 million tonnes of PFA and FBA are produced in UK coal-burning power stations, and while some is used in well-established markets for the manufacture of concrete and construction products, around 3 million tonnes still ends up in landfill.
However, as an alternative to landfill, there is potential to extend the use of PFA and FBA in existing markets as well as to develop new markets, for example as a binder in road construction. The Quality Protocol will identify best practice for use of the ashes and encourage reuse by giving potential users confidence that PFA and FBA meet a defined quality standard.
Marcus Gover, WRAP’s director of market development, said: ‘By establishing a consistent quality guarantee for PFA and FBA, this Quality Protocol will build confidence among end users. It will help recovered materials reach well-established markets, such as construction materials and grouting, while stimulating growth in less-developed markets. The Quality Protocol could also raise standards as it highlights good practice in the use of PFA and FBA.’
To participate in the consultation, which is runs until 1 December 2008, click on the web link below.
qp.dialoguebydesign.net
