In recent developments, the Environment Agency (EA) has announced a significant shift in wood waste regulations with the discontinuation of Regulatory Position Statement (RPS) 250, effective from September 1st, 2023. This change holds profound implications for the management of waste wood within the construction and demolition (C&D) sector.

As a result of this change, specific categories of waste wood, previously categorised as non-hazardous and eligible for disposal at wood recycling facilities, will now require a hazardous waste classification. This classification can only be avoided through a comprehensive analysis establishing their non-hazardous composition. Consequently, it is imperative to dispose of such wood waste at authorised facilities equipped to process hazardous wood waste.

Under the prior provisions of RPS 250, waste wood items potentially carrying hazardous attributes from the C&D industry were treated as non-hazardous. However, following exhaustive assessments conducted by the Wood Recyclers Association (WRA) to assess the presence of hazardous substances in wood-based materials, the EA has taken the decision to retract RPS 250, starting from September 1st, 2023.

What This Means for Waste King Customers

These regulatory changes translate into some types of waste wood that we previously accepted as ‘non-hazardous waste’ no longer being suitable for disposal in our skips.

Here’s a breakdown of the impact:

1. Accepted Wood: Wood dated from 2007 onwards can still be placed in our skips.
2. Hazardous Wood: Any external wood dated between 1950 and 2007 will now be classified as hazardous and cannot be deposited in our skips. This includes various types of wood, such as:
   • Railway Sleepers
   • Telegraph Poles
   • Treated / Creosote Wood
   • Roof Battens
   • Exterior Wood Cladding
   • Garden Shed & Fencing
   • Barge Boards, Fascias, and Soffits
   • External Joinery, including Joists
   • Timber Frames
   • External Doors and Windows
   • Wood for Marine Use

However, there is an exception to the 1950 to 2007 ruling. When renovating kitchens, bathrooms, and other internal spaces where wood is present, wood waste such as flooring, internal doors, or staircases can still be placed in our skips, even if it predates 2007.

Moreover, Waste King will accept pre-2007 waste wood if you provide evidence in the form of the correct certification demonstrating that your pre-2007 wood waste is indeed non-hazardous.

In conclusion, these wood waste regulation changes are significant, and we are committed to ensuring compliance while continuing to provide efficient waste management solutions. At Waste King, we prioritise the safety and environmental responsibility of our operations, and these changes align with our commitment to these values. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these new guidelines, and please feel free to contact us for any clarifications or assistance in handling your wood waste responsibly.

Ready to ensure compliant wood waste disposal when using skip hire services? Contact Waste King today and make an eco-friendly choice for your project.