The status of ferrous slag in the EU
The Waste Framework Directive (WFD) (Directive 2008/98/EC) gives a clear definition of the criteria that characterise a material as a by-product. But despite the widespread use of slag products for construction purposes and for agriculture, the situation regarding the classification of slag still varies across European Member States. In several countries certain types of slag are classified as by-products, whilst in others they are classified as waste.
European steel and slag industry definitely regards slag as a by-product, as ferrous slag placed on the market meets the requirements of national and European harmonised standards and relevant specifications regarding technical and environmental aspects in relation to its intended use.
The European Commission is currently discussing the clarification of the criteria for determining when waste ceases to be waste. In this context, the Commission refers to slag and other materials from industrial production as industrial by-products. EUROSLAG is monitoring this process and supporting the Commission in this classification by providing expert opinions.