Resource management firm Veolia has introduced what it says is the first end-to-end cloud based system that can ensure compliance and traceability for hazardous and non hazardous wastes. Developed by the firms technical teams, the new system manages the complete cycle from enquiry through collection, treatment and disposal and is designed to cover more than 100,000 different waste profiles. Since starting trials last autumn, the system has already managed over 300,000 tonnes of waste processing and scheduled nearly 120,000 service appointments across the UK.
With the specific aim of enabling customers to access waste management services quickly, and generating all the necessary data to meet applicable regulations, the system can help users to remove wastes from their sites efficiently with the back up of the necessary data. This covers all aspects of the waste management process, from the initial collection at the point of production and on-site transfer and consolidation, through to off-site transportation, treatment, and disposal.
The system segregates each item based on potential hazards, physical and chemical properties to ensure correct classification, storage and movement in accordance with the local geographical legislation. It also generates all the required regulatory documents to demonstrate that the necessary pre-acceptance and disposal considerations have been completed. As the system is paperless this eliminates the need to print paper forms, consignment notes, work orders and invoices which reduces the carbon footprint.
The whole system is browser based and is supported by various operator interfaces including android atex (explosion proof) scanners to identify waste using 2D bar codes written into the ADR waste transport labels, and in cab drivers tablet devices. This provides flexibility by enabling the accurate monitoring, logging and tracking needed for these operations.
Originally designed to manage hazardous waste covering the components and concentration, waste description, classification, volume, EWC code, UN number and details, the system now forms an essential tool for total waste management and is linked to weighbridge data. Following the testing phase of the project the capabilities have been extended to enable processing of clinical wastes.
Stuart Stock, Chief Information Officer at Veolia commented: “By developing this using our in-house waste management experience, we believe the new system now represents a major step forward for managing wastes for our customers. It also demonstrates Veolia’s commitment to innovation for the sector, and our drive to use the latest technologies that can enhance our operations.”
“For the first time users will have an end-to-end system that deals with their wastes compliantly and efficiently, and ensures all regulatory requirements are met. This will help drive recycling rates and further backs the aim of achieving a circular economy, backed by the increasingly automated recycling and treatment infrastructure that is able to capture more resources and do this more effectively.”
