SWOBs ban: RMI call to arms
17 May 2012 
AS the threat of a ban moves closer the RMI has called on garage owners to write to their parliamentary representatives to save the waste oil burner.
“The Independent Garage Association (IGA) urges all independent garages to contact their local MP to state why they need Small Waste Oil Burners (SWOBs) and the effects on their business if their use were to be banned” said Stuart James, IGA Director.
The Waste Incineration Directive (WID) that was implemented in 2000 could have in effect banned SWOBs used for heating as these devices couldn’t economically meet the strict environmental standards required.
However the Government issued an exemption that meant SWOBs could still operate if they had an environmental permit from their local authority.
The Government is now questioning whether this exemption can legally be continued. A consultation on the matter will open later this month when garage owners will have the opportunity to voice their concerns by writing to their local MP.
Stuart James continued “A large number of Independent garages across the UK rely on SWOBs as a consistent way of heating their garages as well as disposing of their waste oil. If SWOBs were banned, already cash strapped garages could see a rise in their utility bills of an average of £5000. They would also have to arrange and pay for the professional removal and transport of the waste oil.
“The consultation provides the perfect opportunity for garage owners to speak out and be heard about this very important subject. It is imperative that garages contact their local MP to explain the detrimental effect a ban on SWOB’s would have on their business and other independent garages in the local area.
Dave Garratt, Garage Equipment Association (GEA) Chief Executive continued “The GEA and IGA have been in talks with Government on the subject to ensure that they are fully aware of all the facts. We want to ensure our member’s best interests are represented during the consultation and will be assisting our members with any correspondence to their local MP if they require it.”
In a twist to the story, it is rumoured that companies that collect and sell waste oil are preparing to sue DEFRA for NOT implementing the directive within the last year.