The logistics of managing hazardous waste: a case study analysis in the UK retail sector

In recent years there has been a marked increase in the use of hazardous materials in retail activities, resulting in heightened concern about hazardous wastes ending up in landfill. In response, environmental legislation has been enacted to increase re-use and recycling by placing responsibility on producers and distributors for the collection, treatment and recovery of hazardous waste. This has had direct impacts on the type, number and location of treatment/disposal facilities and the design, planning and management of the associated logistics networks. This study has investigated the legislative, contractual and operational practices governing the management of five hazardous waste streams emanating from retailers in a dedicated shopping centre. Using a substantial database of logistics operations compiled from 92 businesses, the study quantifies the considerable transport footprint currently associated with hazardous waste logistics and discusses the scope for coordinated collection strategies across supply chains potentially using local treatment facilities.