WasteDataFlow

WasteDataFlow (WDF) is the web-based system for municipal waste data reporting by UK local authorities to government. The system went live on the 30 April 2004. WDF is supported by DEFRA. The original aim of WasteDataFlow was to gradually replace the various and often repetitive waste questionnaires which were issued to local authorities by government, departments, agencies, institutions and organisations, with one essential data set. Today WasteDataFlow serves as the data collection system for the current Defra Municipal Waste Management Survey in England and similar surveys in Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

WasteDataFlow is designed for local authorities:

• to allow faster and more accurate data collection of municipal waste statistics, more regularly and efficiently;
• to enhance their local data management for reporting and strategic planning purposes;
• to offer them streamlined access to performance benchmarking with other authorities;

WasteDataFlow will allow government:

• to monitor progress towards national and local targets;
• to produce National Statistics on municipal waste;
• to provide an evidence base to guide government policy.

The waste data on each of the Waste Collection Authorities and Waste Disposal Authorities pages on WikiWaste is taken from WasteDataFlow.

Future of WasteDataFlow

DEFRA are working with suppliers to develop a replacement for the WDF system. This will be a digital system which aims to record, check and track all waste movements through the waste management chain, leading to more effective waste regulations and policy. The waste tracking system will combine the current separate waste data reporting systems into a single portal.