Taking a Vital Step Forward in Lpg Cylinder Retrieval

By Malcolm MacMillan, lpg consultant

The problem of lpg cylinders in the waste stream remains a highly contentious issue for the lp gas industry. Understandably, we face increasing pressures from local authorities, the BMRA and other affected parties to improve our current retrieval arrangements and performance.

So, at UKLPG’s autumn meeting in October 2008, I was greatly relieved to hear the announcement that UKLPG is to form a new cylinder working group. This move was very positively received by the lp gas industry – indeed, it immediately prompted a number of offers to participate in the working group.

To be fair, many good people are already working on this, including the gas cylinder industries, the metal recycling trade and regulators, such as the Health & Safety Executive, Environment Agency and council waste authorities. However, by adding a UKLPG cylinder working group to the mix, I believe we have taken a vital step forward in determining the best ways to improve on our present performance.

The problem of lpg cylinders in the waste stream is not a stand-alone matter and is very complex. There are many stakeholders involved, not only within the industry, but outside it too.

Coupled with this, legislation can often add its own unintended and unwelcome complications. In particular, EU Waste Law significantly clouds the issue of whether all discarded gas cylinders can or should be classified as waste.

Scrap metal values are high, and with cylinders of all types causing chronic safety, disposal and cost headaches for councils and scrap metal processors alike, the scene is set for massive asset losses and for all manner of safety and environmental issues out there.

The gas cylinder industries are all under unprecedented attack by predators uniquely placed to masquerade as ‘friends’ of the waste stream operator. Typically, they visit the waste sites proactively, offering to remove gas cylinders of any type, brand or condition.

To the waste site operator, this contrasts favourably with what the official retrieval operators can offer - some may visit on a reactive basis only, perhaps responding only after repeated requests, and then removing only their specifically authorised brands.

Against that threatening backdrop, it is hugely encouraging to know that the lp gas industry is once again taking positive steps towards a better solution. It is still early days, but we now have an experienced and committed group of representatives eager to address these issues for the benefit of us all.

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