Waste Quality Protocols

A quality protocol sets out how to fully recover waste and turn it into a quality product. It defines the point at which waste ceases to be waste and can be used as a product without the requirement for waste management controls.  By following quality protocols, producers can create sustainable resources in which end users can have confidence.

The project is a partnership between the Environment Agency, WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme), NIEA and Welsh Government.

The benefits of Quality Protocols are significant.  We estimate that by 2020 the first 12 Quality Protocols will create around £1 billion in business savings and increased sales of waste-derived products; divert 17 million tones of waste from landfill;  and avert 2.1 million tonnes in carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (CO₂).*

Compliance with Quality Protocols is voluntary. If producers do not comply with the quality protocol in full, the waste will still be regarded as waste and the onward transfer and use of the waste will be subject to the requirements of the Waste Management Licensing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 and Amendments.

We launched the first in a series of protocols covering particular streams in July 2010.  Published protocols are listed below.  Other materials being considered are tyres, incinerator bottom ash and waste wood.

In January 2013, just over two years on from the implementation of several of the quality protocols, the NIEA wish to evaluate the level of interest in and uptake of the protocols, to confirm that a market exists for the various materials and to establish the benefits for Northern Ireland businesses.  Selected stakeholders will shortly be receiving an invitation to complete an online questionnaire.  We would welcome your input to this process and if you would like to be included in the evaluation please contact us at  betterregulation@doeni.gov.uk

Quality protocol for Compost (August 2012)

A revised Quality Protocol for Compost was published on 1st August 2012, replacing the July 2010 version.

Quality protocol for Anearobic Digestate (July 2010)

This protocol is currently under review; the consultation exercise concluded in October and a revised protocol will be published shortly.

Quality Protocol for Poultry Litter Ash (PLA) (August 2012).

Quality Protocol for Gypsum from Waste Plasterboard (March 2011)

Quality Protocol for Biodiesel (March 2011)

Quality Protocol for Pulverised Fuel Ash / Furnace Bottom Ash (PFA/FBA) Protocol (October 2010)

Quality Protocol for Processed Fuel Oil (PFO) Protocol (July 2010; Updated February 2011)

For further information on our position on Quality Protocols please email betterregulation@doeni.gov.uk or call  028 9056 9443

Further information on the quality protocols programme can be found on The Environment Agency's website and also on the WRAP website.

* The above figures are based on Financial Impact Assessments (FIA’s) conducted on the first 12 Quality Protocols over a 10 year period UK wide. The FIA’s are conducted in accordance with the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) and HM Treasury guidelines and are conservative.