Hazardous waste management in Georgia is one of the most strictly regulated areas, directly linked to public health and environmental safety. Hazardous waste includes substances and objects with toxic, explosive, flammable, or infectious properties. Businesses that generate, collect, transport, or process such waste are obliged to comply with complex legislative requirements. The Waste Management Code imposes strict obligations regarding waste recording, labeling, temporary storage, and final disposal. Improper management can lead not only to severe financial penalties but also to criminal liability for environmental damage. This service is intended for industrial facilities, medical institutions, laboratories, and all entities whose activities generate hazardous waste.
What Does Hazardous Waste Legal Service Cover?
Legal services in the field of hazardous waste aim to ensure a company's full compliance with environmental standards. Specialists offer the following services:
- Waste Classification: Correct identification and classification of waste according to the List of Waste of Georgia (hazardous vs. non-hazardous).
- Development of Waste Management Plans: Preparation of the company's waste management plan and coordination with the Ministry, which is mandatory for many enterprises.
- Appointment of Environmental Manager: Legal consultation on the appointment of an environmental manager and their functions.
- Obtaining Permits: Acquiring necessary permits and licenses for activities related to the collection, transportation, pre-treatment, and disposal of hazardous waste.
- Contract Audit: Legal review of existing contracts with waste disposal companies (contractors) to delineate liability.
- EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility): Inclusion in management schemes for specific waste (oils, tires, electronics) and fulfillment of relevant obligations.
Common Scenarios and Needs
In practice, companies often fail to code waste correctly, leading to problems during inspections. For example, medical clinics need clear protocols for managing infectious waste. Car service centers often face issues regarding the handover of used oils and batteries because they need a licensed contractor. Also, a common situation is when a construction company discovers asbestos-containing materials during demolition and needs urgent legal assistance for their lawful disposal. Additionally, accidents during the transport of hazardous waste require immediate response and legal regulation of damage compensation.
Georgian Legislation and Regulations
The fundamental document of the sector is the "Waste Management Code", which defines the waste hierarchy and the "polluter pays" principle. The "Law of Georgia on Environmental Protection" is also important, establishing general ecological requirements. Government decrees apply to specific types of waste, for example, regarding the management of medical waste, animal waste, and specific waste streams (oils, batteries). International agreements and road transport regulations on the carriage of dangerous goods also apply to the transport of hazardous waste. The issuance of permits is regulated by the "Environmental Assessment Code".
The Process: How a Specialist Works
A lawyer first conducts a waste audit to determine what types of hazardous waste the company generates. Then, waste codes are assigned, and a waste management plan is drafted, which is sent to the Ministry for agreement. If the company needs an operating permit (e.g., a waste recycling plant), the lawyer guides the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) process. Also, the specialist assists the company in maintaining the electronic recording system, which requires regular declarations. In case of disputes, the lawyer represents the company in court or before administrative bodies.
Why Legal.ge?
Hazardous waste management requires deep knowledge in both law and ecology. Legal.ge allows you to find niche lawyers who understand waste codes, licensing nuances, and inspection specifics. Specialists on our platform will help you avoid risks and ensure your business is fully compliant with the law. Trust verified professionals on Legal.ge.
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