SOCOTEC UK offers waste composition analysis and supporting services to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.
What is a waste composition analysis?
Waste composition analysis (WCA) is the process of manually separating, categorising and weighing the various materials in a single waste stream.
If required, further analysis – either physical or chemical can be undertaken on the material within each category. Results recorded from the analysis are presented in a simple report to give you a better understanding of the make-up and value of your waste.
Zero to Landfill for a sustainable future
Zero to Landfill is the term used to describe reducing the amount of waste going to landfills for a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future.
For companies looking to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfill, WCA reports provide invaluable insights to cut costs and improve the efficiency of waste management processes.
How does SOCOTEC conduct a waste composition analysis?
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Step 1: Sampling
SOCOTEC provides a nation-wide field sampling service with experienced sampling technicians available to take independent, representative samples in line with customer requirements and current standards. Alternatively, some customers choose to take their own samples.

Step 2: Transfer
Samples are transferred to SOCOTEC’s specialist renewable energy laboratory for analysis. Analysis can also be conducted on-site for quick results; we have a wealth of experience setting up and operating on-site analysis facilities.

Step 3: Analysis
Samples are sorted and categorised using standardised methodology in preparation for the recording process.

Step 4: Recording
Sorted material is weighed and recorded to produce a report on the composition of your waste sample.

Step 5: Reporting
SOCOTEC will provide you with a simple report of the WCA data to support your waste management process.
Why is a waste composition analysis important?
Waste composition analysis is important as it helps businesses understand the make-up of waste streams. Local authorities and councils can use this information to develop programmes that reduce waste, conserve money and resources.
There are ongoing changes in the make-up of waste streams due to shifts in waste disposal behaviours in the UK over recent years. This has an effect on every stage of the waste management lifecycle due to the output and values of waste material differing.
It is important for your business to develop an understanding of the different materials and contaminants making up your waste stream to comply with environmental regulations, to protect your equipment and to play your part in moving towards a Circular Economy. The best method to develop this understanding is WCA.
Why choose SOCOTEC for a waste composition analysis?
SOCOTEC’s experts are on hand to ensure quick and reliable data to support with your project requirements. Once your sample has been analysed, your results will be finalised in a concise and simple report that contains data specific to your unique project.
SOCOTEC has vast experience providing WCA to customers including EfW owners and operators, waste management companies, brokers, consultancy firms and local authorities. We work closely with our customers to develop representative and practical sampling plans and our experienced technicians implement them with both competence and due regard to any on-site operational considerations. Analysis categories are specified by the customer and samples are carefully analysed to ultimately provide reliable data in a usable format specific to your unique project.
Our team recognise the importance of providing you with robust data to meet your project deadline, and how crucial that data is in informing your commercial and operational decisions.

Waste Compositional Analysis
Supporting your sector
SOCOTEC’s WCA service can be delivered across a range of sectors to support your specific needs.
For local authorities, WCA provides an understanding of the waste and recycling habits of household and businesses in the UK to create waste management policies and develop recycling schemes.
At Energy from Waste (EfW) facilities, insights from WCA can be used to identify any potentially harmful contaminants or emissions release from burning fuels, and to identify any material that may have a detrimental effect on plant operations contributing to downtime.
Waste management companies can utilise WCA reports to ensure they are meeting recycling goals and complying with environmental regulations.
Take a look at how we can further support your sector with a broad range of Testing, Inspection, Certification, Dispute and Advisory services across a range of sectors below.
SOCOTEC’s WCA service can be delivered across a range of sectors to support your specific needs.
For local authorities, WCA provides an understanding of the waste and recycling habits of household and businesses in the UK to create waste management policies and develop recycling schemes.
At Energy from Waste (EfW) facilities, insights from WCA can be used to identify any potentially harmful contaminants or emissions release from burning fuels, and to identify any material that may have a detrimental effect on plant operations contributing to downtime.
Waste management companies can utilise WCA reports to ensure they are meeting recycling goals and complying with environmental regulations.
Take a look at how we can further support your sector with a broad range of Testing, Inspection, Certification, Dispute and Advisory services across a range of sectors below.
SOCOTEC offers a range of supporting services:
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