Legislation: Comment sought on beneficial use of waste

Comment is sought within 30 days on the possible exclusion of certain waste streams from being defined and managed as such – with a view to using them in ways deemed ‘beneficial’. This, reports Pam Saxby for Legalbrief Policy Watch, is noting applications to that effect received by Environmental Affairs Minister Nomvula Mokonyane and requiring a decision, according to the Government Gazette notice concerned. In terms of waste exclusion regulation 6(3) and sections 72 and 73 of the 2008 National Environmental Management: Waste Act, the Minister and her department are required to ‘follow a consultative process’ when considering such applications.

Against that backdrop, waste streams that could eventually be used beneficially include chrome, platinum and silicon slag; biomass and gypsum from pulp, paper and cardboard production and processing; and ash from combustion plants. A schedule to the notice spells out their potential use in a raft of industries including building and construction, biofuels, agriculture and mining.

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