International waste shipments (IWS), also known as transfrontier shipments of waste, are movements of waste between countries.
Changes in manufacturing and an increase in recycling means more household and commercial wastes are being exported for recycling overseas.
High quality waste materials make a useful contribution to sustainable resource use. The illegal export of low quality waste materials can harm the environment and human health.
You can help make sure your waste is not being exported illegally by complying with the duty of care and by sorting your waste correctly. Only use authorised waste contractors to handle your waste. This will provide a quality material for recycling in the UK and overseas.
If you import waste into or export waste from the UK you must comply with the international regulations that control international waste shipments.
If you export waste illegally you can be prosecuted, fined or imprisoned.
Before you import or export waste you must check that you are allowed to with your competent authority.
Who regulates waste imports and exports?
The competent authorities for dispatch (exports) and destination (imports) of waste in the UK are:
Environment Agency in England and Wales
Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA)
SEPA in Scotland
In this guideline:
Do international waste shipment controls apply to you?
Importing or exporting green list waste
Importing or exporting waste under notification controls
Waste import and export competent authorities
Further information on waste import and export
Waste import and export legislation
