There are lots of instances of fly tipping across the UK every week. Councils and landowners are inundated with reports of waste being dumped in cities and the countryside. It’s a real problem that does not seem to be getting better, even with the legislation and legal consequences in place.
In this blog, we’re going to show you exactly what fly tipping is and why it’s such a problem.
What is fly tipping?
Fly tipping is the name given to any ‘illegal dumping of liquid or solid waste on land or in water’. Typically, waste is dumped in secluded places by businesses or individuals to avoid having to pay proper disposal costs for the materials.
Why is fly tipping a problem?
Fly tipping is an incredibly damaging and costly issue. There are lots of problems created when waste material is improperly disposed of.
It’s expensive
Local councils must use taxpayer’s money to clean up fly tipped waste. We all know that money would be better invested elsewhere! If the waste is dumped on privately owned land, it often falls to the landowner to foot the clean up bill. This means they also have less available to invest in the local area too.
It damages the environment
Anything that’s placed in a natural environment that isn’t supposed to be there has the potential to be incredibly damaging. It disrupts eco systems and can injure or even kill wildlife. Additionally, dumped waste can contaminate soil and pose a threat to livestock and crops.
Hazard to human health
Often, fly tipped waste is materials that are difficult, or expensive, to dispose of, like asbestos roofing, fridges and freezers, or vehicle parts. These items contain substances that, if not correctly managed, can pose a serious threat to human health, as well as to the wider environment. Waste might also attract vermin and spread disease.
Communities suffer
If there are lots of instances of fly tipping in an area, it can have a serious impact on reputation. This has a knock-on effect to local communities. Businesses might avoid moving into the area and house prices might be negatively affected.
So, what can be done?
When it comes to fly tipping, it’s important to educate people of the dangers and costs associated. There are lots of things that you can do to help prevent fly tipping in your area. You can:
- Keep the area visible – so fly tippers can’t act anonymously
- Install CCTV – footage can help prosecute fly tippers
- Report it – use the GOV website to report any fly tipping in your area
- Ensure builders/contractors you use are a registered waste carriers
As a reputable waste management company, we know that there is always an alternative to dumping waste. Our team helps businesses send zero waste to landfill. We design cost saving solutions for waste management. Can you help us spread the word by also sharing this piece with your family, friends and colleagues?
