Waste Site Intervention Framework (WSIF)

The Environment Agency (EA) is developing a new Waste Site Intervention Framework (WSIF) to ensure we can respond quickly and safely when high‑risk waste or landfill sites pose serious environmental or public‑health risks. These situations may involve illegal waste activity, abandoned sites, or unmanaged waste that could lead to pollution, fires, or other harm. The EA’s approach remains firmly grounded in the polluter pays principle. Responsibility for preventing pollution and managing waste rests with the operator, landowner, or depositor, and the EA will continue to pursue all reasonable steps to ensure responsible parties undertake or fund any necessary works. EA intervention is expected to occur only in exceptional circumstances where significant risks remain unresolved and the potential environmental or public‑health impacts justify EA involvement. To help shape a flexible and effective commercial model, we are seeking supplier feedback. The proposed Framework will provide rapid access to specialist services across England. The Framework is expected to cover three broad areas of work: Lot 1: Abandoned Landfill Management Lot 2: Waste Removal from Unpermitted or Abandoned Waste Sites (UAWS) Lot 3: Waste‑Related Technical Advisory Services Suppliers with relevant experience in any of these areas are encouraged to take part in this engagement to help shape the final commercial approach. Information on how to participate is set out below.