Classification of waste - Change to the Waste Register Regulations - consideration of non-toxic fractions

The classification is based on the Waste Register Regulations (Abfallverzeichnisverordnung), which were significantly changed last year, and which in particular affects the hazardous characteristic HP14 (environmentally hazardous): Since the removal of the option of assessing the environmental hazard, for example, on the basis of the quantity of leachable heavy metals (eluate tests), specific information on the composition and bonding form of toxic elements is required for their evaluation. The concentration limit for the sum of aquatically very toxic compounds is 0.25 %, i.e. 2.5 g/kg. This threshold is reached quickly due to the summation.

In practice, assessment with regard to the hazardous characteristics HP14 means that the generally known analysis values have to be checked for plausibility, that the relationship between the values determined in laboratory samples and the original sample must be established, and it is necessary to clarify which fractions of the elements really exist in the form of toxic compounds.

For example, untreated bottom ash from waste incineration regularly contains total levels of copper and zinc above 0.25 %. Classification as non-hazardous waste is only possible if it is known which toxic compounds can be excluded due to waste formation, which bonding form can be assumed for the fractions not present as metal and if it is proven that sufficient fractions exist in metallic form and are thus not to be classified as toxic.

To classify waste and assess the hazardous properties of waste, bifa combines its experience in the evaluation of the database and in-depth knowledge of the behaviour of substances in production processes and in the creation of waste with practical procedures and detailed knowledge of the statutory and non-statutory regulations.