Possible changes to the rules for dealing with brick, concrete, hardcore, subsoil and other inert waste have been published for informal consultation.

The aim is to adopt a more proportionate and risk-based approach to its recovery and disposal.

The Government’s Waste Strategy 2007 supported increased efficiency in the use of construction, demolition and excavation materials, but recognised a continued role for inert waste in restoring exhausted mineral workings. The Government committed in the Strategy to consult on options for reform of inert waste regulation by the end of this year.

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Defra and the Environment Agency have worked with the industry led Landfill Inert Waste Sub-Group to develop possible ways forward, and responses to the discussion paper will help to shape final proposals.

The informal consultation reflects recommendations from Lord Davidson's report of November 2006 on reducing or simplifying unnecessary regulation. It also takes account of a position statement by the Quarry Products Association in June 2006, setting out industry concern about the level of regulation.

The paper is published jointly by Defra, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Environment Agency. The closing date for responses is 21 March 2008.

(JM)