Post by Tom Pickering
Category Blog
19/06/2013

Environment Agency Crack Down

We have spoken before about the effects of illegal waste disposal and the effect it can have on the environment and communities. We are pleased to hear this week that the Environment Agency has been teaming up with a number of other agencies to tackle the growing problem of waste crime.

On Tuesday, in conjunction with Crimestoppers and the Road Haulage Association, the Environment Agency were conducting stop and searches of wagons carrying waste, and were also visiting waste sites in an attempt to stop illegal behaviour.

They say that:

“The aim of the day of action, code name Operation Cyclone, is to disrupt the supply of waste to illegal waste sites, gather intelligence and encourage people to report waste crime”

You can find some images taken by the Environment Agency whilst carrying out their stop and searches here.

environment_agency

 

Paying the Penalty
It is estimated there are over 800 illegal waste sites in England and Wales. Last year alone almost 300 successful prosecutions were carried out due to waste crime, which produced fines exceeding £1.5 million.

Recently, after failing to pay the full amount of almost £1 million, a convicted waste criminal has been sentenced to a further 3 years in prison on top of the 4 and a half years he was initially handed. His illegal operation made millions of pounds worth of profit after he was dumping tonnes of construction waste in an illegal landfill.

The fines and convictions may seem excessive at first glance, but when you realise the damage that these rogue operators do it becomes clear why the punishments are so severe.

Environmental Effects
Aside from the unsightliness of having a makeshift waste site in your community, they also produce foul smells, attract rodents and can cause pollution. With hazardous waste, more serious damage can be caused to local wildlife and humans. This is why it is important to contact trusted professionals to dispose of your waste. While the low costs seem tempting, by funding cowboys you are indirectly contributing to environmental neglect.

If you suspect someone of committing waste crime, you may contact the Environment Agency directly on 0800 80 70 60 or visit their website here. You can also report concerns anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 

Share this post
Tom Pickering

Tom Pickering

Tom Pickering is the Managing Director of Clearance and Clean Up. Tom has created a highly motivated and well trained team that can deal with multiple tasks in many different environments. Connect with Tom on LinkedIn >>
Related Posts
Why Peterborough Fly Tipping Rates Are High

Why Peterborough fly tipping rates are so high and how to report it. As well as avoiding rogue waste carriers and using safer alternatives.

Read More
A Guide To Peterborough Recycling Centre

Taking a look at Peterborough recycling centre. Where to find it, which waste streams are accepted and how to book your visit.

Read More
A List of Popular Peterborough Charity Shops with Details

A complete list of contact details and addresses of the most popular Peterborough charity shops. As well as alternatives if they won't accept your items.

Read More
Back to All Posts

Latest Posts

Search

Categories

Archives

© Clearance & Clean Up. All rights reserved. Company Reg: 7503971 VAT Reg: 178970254
payment-icons
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram