TWO researchers are leading a study into waste management as part of a university project.

Drs Christopher Johnson and Derek Johnson are the first appointments to a research group set up by Durham University in 2001 to explore sustainable waste management.

Based in the university's geological sciences department, the group has received £200,000 from the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme, provided through the County Durham Environmental Trust.

The pair, who have been appointed post-doctoral research fellows, will investigate waste reduction processes with the aim of reducing dependence on landfill disposal.

Dr Fred Worrall, of the university's geological sciences department, said: "Chris and Derek are widely respected and have excellent track records in this particular field.

"They have already embarked on some ground-breaking research and will help to cement our growing international reputation for waste research."