National Waste Prevention Programme

Waste prevention is our most favourable waste management option - do not generate the waste. By not generating waste, we can eliminate the need to handle, transport, treat and dispose of waste. We can also avoid having to pay for these services.

The Minister of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government launched the National Waste Prevention Programme in April 2004. It is being led by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The aim is to deliver substantive results on waste prevention and minimisation and integrate a range of initiatives addressing awareness-raising, technical and financial assistance, training and incentive mechanisms.

An Outline Work Plan 2004-2008 describes the focus of the Programme and provides an outline of projects to be undertaken in that period with an outlook to 2008. 

The programme will build on initiatives such as Cleaner Greener Production Programme. 

Training

The EPA has supported the development of a certified training programme in Waste Prevention and Minimisation with IBEC and the Clean Technology Centre.  Contact www.ibec.ie for more information. The Local Authority Prevention Demonstration Programme (LAPD) is also underway.

Hazred

Pilot audits and guidance have been developed in relation to the implementation of the Solvents Regulations. 

Work has commenced on a hazardous waste reduction project, Hazred, in association with the UK Envrironment Agency using EU/Life funding.

A grant aid programme for prevention by local authorities is in development.  Support is provided to producer responsibility initiatives such as Repak and WEEE.

Learn more

Find out more about Hazred

Read the IBEC press release about the Waste Prevention and Reduction Programme