Littering motorists to face tougher penalties

Action against drivers and passengers who throw rubbish from vehicles in Scotland is to be toughened up under new laws in a bid to tackle the country’s mounting litter problem.

Nearly seven tonnes of litter amasses each month alongthem8andm9alone.

Environment secretary Roseanna Cunningham says the move will be introduced in a future Circular Economy Bill.

Current littering laws see offenders facing a fixed penalty of £80. The new measures are yet to be finalised but could see drivers held accountable and higher fines introduced.

“Not only is littering from vehicles completely unnecessary, it is unsightly and it presents a danger,” Ms Cunningham said.

“There is also a significant cost to the taxpayer, taking valuable resources away from other public services.”