Low risk waste positions: electrical equipment, including constituent parts and accessories

Purpose
The Environment Agency has updated its guidelines regarding Low Risk Waste Processes (LRWP) and regulatory position statements (RPS), affecting waste operations and environmental permits. The agency may review LRWPs, deciding whether an activity is still suitable or if conditions need changing.

Effects on Industry
This update affects industries and companies involved in waste operations, particularly those handling electrical equipment, electronic storage media, and hazardous WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment). The withdrawal of LRWP 20 and RPS 324 means that shredding computer hard drives and accepting shredded electronic storage media at permitted sites will require new or revised permits. This may lead to increased regulatory requirements, costs, and administrative burdens for affected industries.

Relevant Stakeholders
Businesses involved in waste operations, particularly those handling electrical equipment, electronic storage media, and hazardous WEEE, are directly affected by this update. Companies must regularly check if the LRWP they benefit from is still in place, as conditions may have changed or been withdrawn. Consumers and individuals who shred electronic storage media containing confidential or sensitive material should also be aware of the updated guidelines.

Next Steps
Companies involved in waste operations must review their current practices and permits to ensure compliance with the updated regulations. They should regularly check for changes to LRWPs and RPSs, apply for new or revised permits as necessary, and update their operational procedures accordingly. Businesses accepting shredded electronic storage media at permitted sites must ensure they meet the requirements outlined in RPS 324.

Any Other Relevant Information
The Environment Agency may continue to review and update its guidelines, potentially leading to further changes in regulations and permits. Companies should be prepared for future updates by regularly monitoring agency announcements and adapting their practices accordingly.