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Processed Incinerator bottom ash (processed IBA)

Processed Incinerator bottom ash (processed IBA) can be used to create aggregates. These are useful in construction, for example as hardcore and fill material.

Through the Waste Protocols Project we are in the process of gathering evidence on standards the material meets, markets it may be able to exploit, and most importantly any potential impacts on human health and the environment. The aim is to establish whether the waste can be considered to be fully recovered and used as a quality product.

We believe that this process could help ensure that almost 469,000 tonnes of processed IBA is used rather than sent to landfill each year.

What are the benefits?

In addition to diverting waste away from landfill, compliance with a quality protocol could save over 398,000 tonnes of virgin raw material. We calculate it could save over 41,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions annually.
 
It may save businesses over £47,350,000 each year, largely due to landfill charges, and create markets worth over £5.8 million a year.

The current status

A technical advisory group (TAG) has been established which is currently pooling evidence to demonstrate that end-of-waste criteria can be met. We are working closely with industry to obtain additional data to help this process.

Get involved

If you produce or recycle incinerator bottom ash, or you can use aggregate recyclates, it is likely to be in your interests to get involved with the quality protocol process. You can submit your details to Waste Protocols and we will notify you when the documents are published and/or a quality protocol goes to UK consultation.

More information

For information on a voluntary initiative to halve the amount of construction waste going to landfill each by 2012 see WRAP’s construction waste recovery pages.

If you would like further help, please email.