The change in the definition of backfilling in the revised Waste Framework Directive of 2018 reflects the need to address the quality and environmental impact of recovery operations related to construction and demolition waste (C&DW). The original definition, as per Commission Decision 2011/753/EU, described backfilling as a recovery operation where suitable waste is used for reclamation or engineering purposes in excavated areas or landscaping, serving as a substitute for non-waste materials.

However, the revised directive strengthened the definition by emphasising that waste used for backfilling must be limited to the amount strictly necessary to achieve its intended purposes. This change implies a more stringent approach to backfilling activities, potentially limiting the amount of material that can be reported as being backfilled in the future.

The initial high recovery rates reported by countries, especially exceeding the 2020 target, were largely based on practices like backfilling or low-grade recovery, such as using recycled aggregates for road sub-bases. 

Backfilling, in particular, is considered a form of low-quality recovery since it involves replacing a readily available natural resource (soil) with waste material, which might not have high environmental impacts in its production. The revised definition, emphasising the limitation of material used for backfilling to the amount strictly necessary, aims to ensure that backfilling operations do not compromise the overall goals of the circular economy by preserving the value of recycled materials and promoting higher-quality recovery practices.

By addressing the potential overuse or misclassification of backfilling in reporting recovery rates, the revised definition contributes to a more accurate representation of progress toward circular economy objectives in the construction and demolition waste sector.

The Hub360 Driver App can automatically track backfilling activities. This can help monitor the progress of operations, track the amount of material used, and ensure compliance with regulations or project requirements. The App will document al key information related to backfilling, such as the types of waste materials used, quantities, locations, and timestamps. This data can be valuable for reporting, analysis, and regulatory compliance.