Disposal Of Waste

SOIL DISPOSAL

The NSW EPA has Guidelines for the disposal of non-liquid wastes. These were written mainly with factory or production processes in mind, but they also apply to soil removal.

Waste is classified as Inert, Solid, Industrial, Hazardous or Scheduled. Inert waste may be disposed of at any depot or suitable site. Solid waste must go to one of a few licensed land fills. For the other classes of waste, the options include treatment such as setting in concrete to effect a change in class, shipping out of the state or long term storage.

Existing licensed landfills may make application to install cells within existing depots for some classes of waste. Certain types of waste, no matter what their analysis are classified as Inert or Solid. For all other wastes their classification depends on their analysis for total concentration of various potential contaminants. In most cases a Leachable Concentration Test (TCLP) is also needed.

Until July 1999, an application had to be made to the NSW EPA for disposal of all Solid waste, and the receiving depot had to also make an application in respect of the same waste. In July 1999, a self assessment system began and an application to the EPA is not required. The generator now needs to certify the waste classification to the receiving depot. The EPA will spot check truck loads of waste arriving at depots and will issue fines for non compliance.

New Environment can sample and analyse soil and waste and advise on appropriate disposal. We can provide Reports suitable for submission to the depot, as most depots now require such a Report.

DISPOSAL OF LIQUID WASTE

Liquid waste is usually processed and treated in a purpose designed facility so the rules have a different approach. Liquids are classified as;

• those which may be discharged directly into waters in accordance with a licence issued under the Pollution Control Act 1970,
• liquids which may be discharged to sewer,
• other liquids.

It is these other liquids which are subject to licensing under the Waste Avoidance & Resource Recovery Act. These are split into five categories.

If you need assistance contact New Environment.