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Disposal of inert fill

The inert waste received by NOAH is used for landscape rehabilitation.

Inert waste is waste that is neither chemically nor biologically reactive, is non-biodegradable and cannot be incinerated. It is inorganic matter that will not break down.

Examples of inert waste are clay, soil, sand and concrete. This excavation waste has a low contamination potential and may be suitable for community use, such as the development of commercial areas or filling of hollows to facilitate farming.

Although inert excavation waste has a low contamination potential, its use is regulated through national law. All facilities for the disposal of inert waste must have permission for this from the county governor by means of a discharge permit. In addition, the land used for this type of disposal must be regulated for this purpose in accordance with the provisions of the Planning and Building Act. In practice, this means that the local political government (municipal or city council) must approve the use of the land for this purpose.

At NOAH’s facility, all dumping of inert excavation waste is subjected to a comprehensive inspection on receipt in accordance with the applicable rules and requirements of the discharge permit. The impact of the activities on the surrounding environment is monitored continuously using an established monitoring system approved by the environmental authorities, while all activities are monitored through inspections and audits. NOAH has also implemented strict health and safety requirements for all those working in the operations area.