§ Ms ShortTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many landfill sites in the United Kingdom have gas control plant with flarestacks; how many of these have licence conditions incorporating the recommendations for combustion temperature contained in waste management paper 27; and what action has been taken against site operators who do not maintain flarestacks to a satisfactory standard.
§ Mr. MacleanWaste disposal licensing is the responsibility of the waste regulation authorities and these authorities maintain public records of licensed activities in their areas. The information is not held centrally.
In considering applications for licences, suitable conditions are set by authorities to ensure that operations do not lead to pollution or danger to public health. Conditions are set on a site specific basis taking account of the guidance given by the Department in waste management papers. Waste management paper 27 explains that all landfill sites should be considered as having the potential to generate landfill gas and all should be monitored for gas evolution and migration. Sites should, where necessary, have control systems installed to prevent uncontrolled gas migration.
Authorities have a duty to monitor activities at licensed sites. They are able to revoke licences if licence holders fail to comply with the conditions attached to the licence and take appropriate remedial action if a hazard arises.