NI Environment Minister, Edwin Poots has launched guidance that will help to safely reuse soil from construction sites.

The 'Guidance on the Sustainable Re-use of Greenfield Soil in Construction', was produced by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) in partnership with the Construction Employers Federation and other industry stakeholders.

Speaking on the launch, Mr Poots said: "I firmly believe that the pursuit of environmental and economic goals is complimentary. I particularly welcome the joint working between NIEA and the construction industry to produce this guidance which I see as a positive step for Northern Ireland’s environment and economy."

The European Waste Framework Directive classifies surplus soil from construction sites as a waste. This means that its movement must be regulated under waste management controls that cost both time and money. This has contributed to clean soils being dumped illegally or unnecessarily going to landfill.

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The new guidance clearly lays down conditions under which uncontaminated, greenfield soil from construction sites can be re-used sustainably without the requirement for environmental regulatory controls.

The Minister continued: "One of the most important aims of my department is landfill diversion. This is not only due to the financial implications of impending EU infraction fines but because it goes against the grain to bury valuable resources in to the ground.

"This guidance provides sensible regulations and solutions that are proportionate and effective yet risk-based. This will ensure what was formerly classified as 'waste' can be re-used sustainably whilst still protecting the environment and human health."

John Armstrong, Managing Director of the CEF added: "We very much welcome this new guidance. In the past, our members could not understand why clean topsoil or other useful soils could be classified as ‘waste’. This new guidance will help streamline the re-use of soil while still protecting the environment.

"The Federation encourages the industry to move soils responsibly and in accordance with this new guidance in order to demonstrate that we can self-regulate responsibly. This will build confidence with the regulator and prove that this type of ‘lighter-touch’ can work for both the industry and the environment."

(NS/BMcC)