SEPA target fly-tippers

Scotland’s environmental regulator is targeting illegal waste collection services in a new digital clampdown.

Incidences of fly tipping have increased in recent months as recycling centres in North Lanarkshire remained closed for months.

The Wishaw Press has continuously highlighted issues with dumb dumpers this year in a number of areas such as Craigneuk and Netherton.

In April we revealed that members of Coltness Community Council had cleared hundreds of bags full of rubbish from sites nearby.

And in May, a Newmains man called on fellow residents to help him clear up a stretch of woodland near his home as household waste including mattresses and washing machines were illegally disposed of.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is warning those trying to make a quick buck from the current situation by operating illegally that they are firmly in the spotlight, and that direct warnings would be sent to those not registered with SEPA placing adverts – with fines of up to £5,000 for non-compliance.

A specialist enforcement team from SEPA is working alongside Police Scotland, Zero Waste Scotland and the local authority to tackle waste crime.

Social media sites are being monitored by officers to catch those responsible for illegal waste collection and disposal services.

SEPA’s head of enforcement Jennifer Shearer, said:“We’ve unfortunately seen a number of instances of couriers and so-called white van men taking the opportunity to offer an unauthorised waste collection service and then often dumping in public spaces or remote parts of countryside.

“Our digital disruption is designed to take those operating illegally, out of the market.”

The SEPA official also emphasised the public has an important role to play.

“Don’t engage the services of people who are not authorised,”she added.