The aim of this Decision is the application of provisions of law No. 1650/86 (article 12) and the full harmonisation of the Greek legislative framework with the provisions of Council Directive 91/156/EEC on waste, so as to ensure managing hazardous wastes properly due to the risks they may pose to the environment and human health. The Decision brings forth the National Waste Management Plan. The five-year Plan sets the general technical requirements for waste management at a national level and specifies procedures to be followed when disposing of, carrying and receiving hazardous waste. It is described analytically in Annex II of article 17 to this Decision and is approved for the first time with the present decision. The Regional Waste Management Plans are drawn up for each Region and provide detailed regulations regarding the general directions and guidelines contained in the National Plan. The Regional Plans aim, amongst other topics, at identifying areas suitable for the management of solid waste and at determining the methods of waste management that should be applied in each area.