Norwegian Plan for Decentralized Hazardous Waste Treatment

Summary

Norwegian industry has been closely involved in the solution of the hazardous waste problems. A comprehensive plan has been worked out by industry and the environmental authorities jointly. Centralized treatment cannot be justified because of high investment costs in relation to the quantities to be treated. Decentralized hazardous waste treatment is envisaged utilizing as far as possible existing plants and processes. State grants and low-interest loans will be provided to develop and refine a decentralized system.

At the first stage 15 to 20 local collection sites are necessary. A central site for i.a. chemical analysis, preliminary handling and packing for transportation to final treatment/disposal is required. Larger quantities are to be transported directly from producer to final treatment plants.

Strict control measures of the whole system is necessary.

Legal, economic and administrative measures to fulfill the plan are examined, and the establishment of an administrative unit (company) to operate and develope further the hazardous waste system is envisaged.