Allister issues fresh calls for Relaxation of Tallow Restrictions
11 July 2007
Jim Allister MEP has said a recent Court of Appeal ruling could lead the way for tallow to be taken out of the confines of the Waste Framework Directive, saving the UK meat processing industry an estimated £30 -£40 million per annum.
On 28th June, the Court of Appeal held that lubricating oil collected after use and processed into fuel oil for burning could cease to be deemed a waste before it was burnt, thus falling out of the scope of the Waste Framework Directive. DEFRA and the Environment Agency have been asked to provide practical guidance for those affected by this Judgement.
Mr Allister commented,
‘In light of this significant ruling, I have written to DOE Minister Arlene Foster urging DOE to liberalise its stance not only regarding quarry waste oil products, but also in relation to tallow under the Waste Framework Directive.’
‘This ruling represents a significant breakthrough in justifying the exclusion of tallow from the confines of the Waste Framework Directive. Such a development would have significant cost benefits to the local Agri-food sector, as well as the added environmental advantage of displacing fossil fuels for energy requirements. I look forward to a speedy resolution of this issue.’
ENDS
