Recycling industry set for equipment order bonanza

The recycling industry is bracing itself for an upsurge in equipment orders, as more companies will look to utilise screens and shredders as a direct consequence of the Landfill Directive. 

From 16 July the number of landfill sites permitted to accept hazardous waste from construction sites is reduced from 279 to less than 15.

According to the Environment Agency, construction materials make up 92% of waste going to landfill, of which 43% is hazardous.  

"With less landfill sites, contractors will be encouraged to look at alternative methods of hazardous waste disposal," said Gavin Doherty, recycling specialist for Powerscreen.

"It's incinerated in Europe, and this method could become popular in the UK," added Doherty.

The processing of hazardous material instead of dumping could open up opportunities for manufacturers such as Powerscreen, said Doherty, as machines such as trommels and screens can be used in conjunction with incinerators to produce a fine ash.

The Environment Agency classifies hazardous demolition waste as asbestos and soil contaminated with oils or chemicals. Next year the directive will be expanded to include fluorescent tubes and electrical equipment, as well as requiring all materials to be sorted and compacted prior to dumping.

Reducing waste volume can be economical, so more companies may consider using separators and shredders," said Doherty. "This produces an end product that can even be sold as topsoil," he added.