What Is ENM and Why It Matters

ENM refers to natural material such as soil, clay, sand, or rock that has been excavated from the ground and remains uncontaminated by manufactured chemicals, demolition waste, or hazardous materials. To be classified as ENM, it must be natural in origin, chemically clean, and physically suitable for reuse. If approved, it can be legally transported and reused as general fill — often saving thousands in landfill and haulage fees.

ENM classification is governed by the NSW EPA's Excavated Natural Material Order and Exemption, and failure to follow the guidelines can result in illegal waste transport, fines, or environmental breaches. That’s why professional testing and documentation are essential.

Our Services – ENM Done Right

Soil Sampling & Site Assessment

We begin with a targeted site investigation to understand the nature, origin, and volume of excavated soil. Whether the material is in-situ, stockpiled, or already excavated, we tailor the sampling strategy to ensure it reflects EPA guidelines and site variability.

Samples are collected by trained environmental professionals and submitted to NATA-accredited laboratories for chemical analysis. Our process is designed to be both rigorous and efficient — getting you the answers you need without holding up your project.

ENM Reporting & Waste Classification

Once testing is complete, we prepare a detailed report that includes site details, sampling methodology, lab results, interpretation, and a final determination of whether the material qualifies as ENM. If it doesn’t meet the standard, we’ll provide a clear classification under the NSW Waste Classification Guidelines (e.g. general solid waste, restricted solid waste) — along with guidance on lawful disposal or reuse options.

Our reports are accepted by councils, certifiers, EPA officers, and waste operators across NSW. We also offer fast turnaround times for time-critical projects.

When ENM Matters

If your project involves bulk earthworks, trenching, basement excavation, or site remediation, you’ll likely need to classify and manage excess soil. ENM provides a legal pathway for reuse, allowing suitable material to be stockpiled, transported, or reused at other sites under the exemption. This is especially useful for developers, builders, and contractors looking to reduce environmental impact and manage costs without cutting corners.

Who We Work With

We assist a wide range of clients, including:

• Civil contractors and developers who need to reuse or relocate soil

• Builders and excavation teams who want to avoid unnecessary disposal fees

• Planners and consultants managing development approvals

• Councils and infrastructure managers seeking compliant solutions for clean fill

• Waste facility operators needing ENM verification for incoming material

Whether you’re working on a subdivision, road project, or private build, we scale our services to suit.

Why Choose Confluence Environmental?

We’re environmental scientists who understand the regulatory, practical, and commercial pressures that come with managing soil. Our approach is thorough, responsive, and fully aligned with the NSW EPA’s ENM Order and Exemption, as well as the Protection of the Environment Operations Act and NSW Waste Classification Guidelines.

Our goal is simple: help you reuse what’s clean, dispose of what’s not, and stay fully compliant at every step.

Where We Work

We provide ENM testing and classification services throughout:

• Greater Sydney

• Central Coast

• Newcastle & Hunter Region

• South Coast, Mid North Coast, and regional NSW

We can mobilise quickly for urgent projects or staged works, and work seamlessly alongside your engineers, site managers, and certifiers.