Amber Wood Waste Reclassified as Non-Hazardous by the Environment Agency
The Environment Agency (EA) has officially reclassified amber waste wood, previously deemed “potentially hazardous”, as non-hazardous. This significant change impacts waste streams from household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) and demolition sites. Amber wood items, such as fence posts and decking, which previously fell under scrutiny, can now be treated as non-hazardous, leading to significant regulatory and cost savings for the waste management industry.
Current Amber Wood Classification
Previously, amber wood waste was governed by Regulatory Position Statements (RPS) 249 and 291. These regulations were set to expire at the end of September but are now in the process of being withdrawn. Under the new classification, amber wood waste can be moved and processed without the need for further testing, provided it is destined for panel board manufacturing or Chapter IV biomass use. However, wood waste from heavy industrial buildings will still require assessment under WRA02, the new hazardous waste standard.
Six Years of Research
This reclassification follows six years of rigorous testing, with over a thousand tests led by the Wood Recyclers Association (WRA). During a meeting with the WRA on 4 September 2024, the EA concluded that the amount of hazardous wood waste from both HWRCs and demolition sites was minimal and declining. This shift is expected to save millions in hazardous waste disposal costs and reduce the administrative burden on the industry.
Wider Implications
Although the EA’s decision applies specifically to England, the WRA is hopeful that Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales will adopt similar positions. However, confirmation from these regions is still pending.
Next Steps for the Industry
Following this reclassification, businesses accepting treated waste wood are advised to update their Acceptable Materials Guides. The WRA will also update its WWC Toolkit and collaborate with the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) to revise household and construction waste wood classification guidelines, ensuring alignment with the new regulations.
This development marks a positive shift for the wood recycling industry, reducing compliance costs and simplifying the handling of treated wood waste.