Control on Import and Export of Waste

The Control Scheme

What kinds of shipments are controlled?

According to the waste characteristics, wastes commonly generated worldwide are classified under the WDO into two main categories, namely the Sixth Schedule (non-hazardous recyclables) and the Seventh Schedule (hazardous wastes). The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) may amend these Schedules by notice published in the Gazette.

With the exception of the import or export of uncontaminated waste in the Sixth Schedule for the purpose of reprocessing, recycling, recovery or reuse, all other waste import and export activities require valid permits issued by EPD.

For the purposes of waste import and export, waste is contaminated if it is contaminated by a substance to an extent which

a.	significantly increases the risk of human health, property or the environment associated with the waste; or
b.	prevents the reprocessing, recycling, recovery or reuse of the waste in an environmentally sound manner,
and "uncontaminated" in relation to waste shall be construed accordingly.