The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has estimated that it will take 36 years to remove all hazardous waste from Irish farms.
Around 7,378 tonnes of hazardous waste – including significant amounts of veterinary medicine waste packaging and engine oil – are currently stockpiled on farms according to the EPA.
Hazardous waste including paints, oils, batteries, pesticides, asbestos and contaminated soil can also be found on farms.
Some farms may be illegally storing significant quantities of pesticides, which need regulation due to the potential effects on human health and the environment, according to the scheme.
The news comes as the EPA launched its draft national hazardous waste management plan for 2021-2027 for public consultation in which it outlines its priorities.
Mary Frances Rochford, Programme Manager, EPA Office of Environmental Sustainability said: “These hazardous materials can pose significant risks to human health and the environment if they are not properly used and managed.”
The EPA plan sets out priorities over the next six years to improve the prevention and management of hazardous waste in Ireland.
LSL News.