As of 1 September 2024, the Waste Recovery and Landfill Levy Regulations in Ireland will see a major shift. Levy exemptions for Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste will be removed, impacting how this waste is managed. This blog explores the rationale behind these changes and underscores the importance of digital tracking solutions like Hub360.

Background: The Circular Economy Push

The Circular Economy (Waste Recovery Levy) Regulations 2023 laid the groundwork for these changes by introducing a €10 per tonne levy on recovery operations, including incineration and waste-to-energy plants. This move aligns with the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy, emphasising the need for sustainable waste management practices.

The Growing Issue of Construction Waste

Construction waste has been the fastest-growing waste stream in Ireland, making up over half of the total waste generated. Despite this, it has been exempt from levies, an unsustainable practice both economically and environmentally. Starting 1 September 2024, all forms of construction waste, including soil and stone, will be subject to levies, with a €10 per tonne fee applied to both landfill disposal and recovery operations.

Incentivising Change

The primary goal of these regulatory changes is to incentivise the construction industry to reduce waste disposal and recovery significantly. By imposing these levies, the government aims to drive the reuse and recycling of materials, thus promoting a circular economy where resources are used more efficiently.

Hub360: A Digital Solution for Compliance

In this new regulatory environment, Hub360 offers a vital solution. Its real-time tracking and geo-tagging capabilities ensure precise monitoring and  for these new costs Hub360 represents an efficient levy oversight tool. This digital platform supports the construction industry in adhering to the new regulations, providing greater accountability and transparency in waste management. This removal of levy exemptions for construction waste is believed to be a crucial step towards sustainable waste management in Ireland. With the implementation of digital tracking technologies like Hub360, the construction industry can efficiently navigate these changes, contributing to a more circular and sustainable economy.