Latest figures from BDS Marketing Research show that since 2008, 130 landfill sites have closed since 2008. Despite 30 sites closing during 2012, this has been partly mitigated by 8 sites opening or re-opening.

As local authorities grapple with increases in landfill tax – currently it costs £64 per tonne – moves to divert waste further up the hierarchy are having an impact on incoming volumes at remaining operational sites.

According to the BDS study, some sites have completed their void and planning has not been allowed for an extension while others have come to the end of their natural life.

The largest national landfill company in the UK continues to be FCC, followed by Biffa, Viridor, Veolia and SITA. Together, it is estimated these five companies account for over 60% of the landfill market.

However, there are some marked regional differences. In most parts of England, the leading six landfill companies represent over 80% of the market.

Yet, in northern England, Wales and Scotland, the largest landfill companies have a much smaller share of the market. In these areas, the shares of the leading companies represent around 70% or less of the total market.

For each landfill site and company, BDS estimates the amount of waste each landfill site has taken, with the information broken down by inert, municipal and other wastes. Company market shares on a county, region and nationally are then calculated.

Maxine Perella

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