The construction industry is the largest producer of waste in the UK, accounting for more than 50% of overall landfill volumes, so recycling and re-use is a key priority. This is driven not only by environmental considerations, but also the huge cost associated with waste disposal. Central to this cause is the need to demonstrate that materials have been correctly recovered and to establish beyond doubt that they are no longer waste.

Quality control is a common problem on many construction sites where significant quantities of materials are manufactured or imported – for example, in applications such placement in piling mats where aggregates are sometimes mixed with soil. As well as introducing an element of risk, lack of verification could result in materials being designated as waste, incurring significant tax penalties and loss of client confidence.

QUALITY PROTOCOL (QP) FOR AGGREGATE FROM INERT WASTE

Introduced in 2004 and endorsed by the Environment Agency, the WRAP QP was developed to provide a framework to guarantee compliance with waste management legislation and to maintain the quality of the materials recovered for re-use to recognised standards.

The WRAP Protocol provides a uniform control process with advice on recovery methods for waste material to ensure they are fit for purpose. The QP also offers direction in the form of checklists to assist with documentation.

A clear audit trail with a chain of supporting evidence is essential, especially in the light of new changes to Landfill Tax legislation introduced this year. Equally, where producers are looking to resell manufactured aggregate materials or transfer product to other sites, being able to guarantee its provenance is important, not just during construction but in a building’s lifetime.

Adherence to the QP for aggregate waste is a key driver for us and our clients in site remediation and improving project sustainability. Particular importance is placed on undertaking the necessary data analysis to support the audit trail.

IT’S A WRAP

By following the WRAP QP closely, construction companies can eliminate landfill tax obligations and maximise savings through the re-use and resale of materials produced on-site, whilst moving the industry nearer to a truly circular economy.

Ecologia has carried out a number of remediation projects where recycled aggregates were successfully used to construct piling mats  in  advance of development. For a recent example click HERE.

Have you ever had an issue with imported materials or proving the credentials of those supplied? Let us know what obstacles you have encountered.

For assistance with QC Management and material management in  construction project contact our remediation team or view our services HERE.