The HBF has been talking to Defra, the Environment Agency and the ODPM for several months about the landfill directive and waste management.
Transport costs have increased following implementation of the landfill directive in July, but it is too early to assess the full impact.
Defra is still considering the legal definition of waste, influenced by the latest EU judgement (the Van de Walle case). It is expected to conduct a consultation exercise in spring 2005.
Defra has abandoned its waste permitting review and is now looking at changes to the waste management licensing system.
The Environment Agency has agreed to discuss its proposed guidance with representatives from the HBF.
The government has also invited the HBF to join its new remediation licencing task force, which is to consider how to implement a more appropriate and simplified licensing system for the Brownfield remediation industry.
Up to date information will be posted as it becomes available. If you have any queries, please ring 020 7960 1622.