Arun has recorded one of England’s largest decreases in asbestos waste
New data reveals that Arun has recorded one of England’s largest decreases in asbestos waste, with tonnage falling by 68.53 per cent between 2024 and 2025.
Using the latest Environment Agency hazardous waste data, Sussex waste management experts at BusinessWaste.co.uk have analysed how recorded asbestos waste tonnage has changed across England, revealing the local authorities experiencing the largest year-on-year decreases.
Six of the ten biggest percentage decreases are in the South East, including the top three positions. Slough is in first place, having recorded the biggest percentage decrease at 93.32 per cent.
Arun came in at ninth place, with a decrease of 68.53 per cent.
*It’s important to note that the data measures recorded hazardous waste movements, and lower tonnage could reflect changes in waste handling, reporting or activity rather than a reduction in asbestos present in buildings.
Mark Hall, Sussex waste management expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk, comments on asbestos waste:
“Asbestos remains present in a lot of older buildings and more than 25 years after asbestos was banned in the UK, and as a result, we're still dealing with its legacy. The important thing is that this waste is disposed of correctly and recorded through official channels.
“It’s likely we’ll continue to see asbestos waste for many years to come. Ideally we want to see that asbestos is being identified before work begins, that it is handled by trained professionals and disposed of via authorised facilities. Concern for public safety arises when these systems are bypassed.”
“It’s important that we educate people about the dangers of asbestos, how to identify where it may be present, and what to do if you think you have uncovered hazardous material in the home or at work. Asbestos is more likely to be found in properties built or refurbished before 2000, and it’s difficult to be identified by sight alone; therefore, it's essential to consult professionals.”
The data measures recorded hazardous waste movements, and lower tonnage could reflect changes in waste handling, reporting or activity rather than a reduction in asbestos present in buildings.