Waste Volume Measurement: Ensuring Compliance with New Zealand’s Waste Levy

Introduction to New Zealand’s Waste Levy

The latest round of increases to New Zealand’s national waste disposal levy has come into effect. Another class of landfill is now affected by costs under the Government-implemented scheme. Businesses and landfill operators must accurately track the volume of waste entering their sites to ensure compliance.

Purpose of the Levy

Introduced under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008, the levy aims to raise revenue for promoting and achieving waste minimisation. According to the Ministry for the Environment, the levy recognises the costs that waste disposal imposes on the environment, society, and the economy. It also encourages organisations and individuals to take responsibility for their waste and find more effective ways to reduce, reuse, recycle, or reprocess materials.

Increasing Costs and the Need for Accurate Measurement

Levy costs vary depending on the landfill class and the type of waste. From July 1, 2021, the Government progressively increased and expanded the levy. Operators now face higher costs per gross tonne, making accurate waste volume measurement more critical than ever.

Using Loadscan LVS for Accurate Measurement

A Loadscan Load Volume Scanner (LVS) plays a key role in ensuring correct measurement of fill or waste materials entering a site. Using volume-to-weight conversion factors, operators can calculate the actual weight of waste from its measured volume. These factors vary depending on the type of material handled, ensuring precise compliance with levy requirements.

Compliance Reporting with MyScanner

Accurate reporting of material quantities is a legal requirement. Loadscan’s MyScanner load management system provides detailed data for reporting, auditing, and compliance purposes. By tracking every load, operators can reduce errors, streamline record-keeping, and maintain transparency during inspections.

Accurate waste volume measurement is essential for compliance with New Zealand’s waste levy, improving operational efficiency, and supporting sustainable waste management practices.

Further information on the waste disposal levy, including fact sheets, are available on the Ministry for the Environment website.

Find out more about Loadscan’s Load Volume Scanner