Quality Protocol for sustainable aggregates in Scotland
A NEW Quality Protocol has been published by WRAP (the Waste & Resources Action Programme) to boost market confidence in the status of construction aggregates processed from inert waste in Scotland.
Building on recent work by WRAP, the Quarry Products Association and the Highways Agency for England and Wales, the Quality Protocol for Scotland specifically references the Landfill (Scotland) Regulations 2003 in addressing European Court of Justice (ECJ) rulings on the definition of waste. These have impacted on the use of construction aggregates processed from inert waste due to the uncertainty about when the waste could be considered to be fully recovered and no longer a waste.
The Quality Protocol will provide a uniform control process for producers of recycled aggregates in Scotland from which they can reasonably state and demonstrate that their product has been fully recovered and is no longer a waste. As well as setting out a framework for aggregates producers, the Protocol will provide purchasers with a quality-managed product that complies with common aggregates standards, thereby increasing confidence in its performance. It will also give a clear audit trail for those responsible for ensuring compliance with waste-management legislation.
Professor George Fleming, a non-executive director of WRAP and chair of Civil Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, commented: ‘The recent ECJ rulings have resulted in more materials being classified as waste and remaining waste for longer, presenting a challenge for those wishing to use and promote sustainable aggregates. The Protocol will go a long way towards addressing this barrier to better resource efficiency.’
The Quality Protocol for Scotland is available on the WRAP website (www.wrap.org.uk) and hard copies can be ordered by e-mail from: quality.protocol.scotland@wrap.org.uk
