avfallsstoff

Avfallsstoff is a term used in environmental management to describe any substance or object that qualifies as waste. An avfallsstoff is material that is discarded or intended to be discarded, or required to be discarded after its use. The concept is central to waste management and regulation in many countries, including Norway and the European Union.

Classification and regulation: Wastes are typically categorized as hazardous or non-hazardous. Hazardous wastes are defined by properties such as toxicity, corrosivity, flammability, or reactivity, in line with the CLP Regulation and the European Waste Catalogue. In Norway, waste rules are linked to national Waste Regulations and international classifications. Producers and holders are responsible for sorting, labeling, and ensuring safe handling of avfallsstoff to protect health and the environment.

Handling and management: Proper management involves source separation, characterization, and appropriate packaging of avfallsstoff. Wastes should be stored in closed, labeled containers, kept segregated by category, and placed in designated, spill-containment areas. Documentation, such as waste declarations and transport documents, is required to track streams from generation to end-point treatment or disposal.

Transport and disposal: Transport of waste must comply with rules for dangerous goods where relevant. The waste hierarchy guides disposal choices: prevention, preparation for reuse, recycling, energy recovery, and disposal as a last resort. Hazardous avfallsstoff require specialised treatment (for example, secure incineration with energy recovery, stabilization, or dedicated hazardous waste landfilling).

Environmental and international context: Improper handling can harm soil, water, and air quality. Cross-border movements of avfallsstoff, especially hazardous wastes, are governed by international agreements such as the Basel Convention, as well as national laws. Examples include used batteries, oils, solvents, and contaminated soils.