At present more than 62% of all MSW generated in England is disposed of in landfills3. However, European and UK legislation has been put in place to limit the amount of biodegradable municipal waste (BMW) sent for disposal in landfills4. The Landfill Directive also requires waste to be pre-treated prior to disposal. The diversion of this material is one of the most significant challenges facing the management of MSW in the UK. There are a wide variety of alternative waste management options and strategies available for dealing with MSW to limit the residual amount left for disposal to landfill. The aim of this guide is to provide impartial information about the range.