Having a clear-out during lockdown has seen fly-tipping increase across the country as many of us are taking the opportunity to spring clean our homes and gardens. This is a natural response to spending more time at home but how many of us are thinking about what to do with our waste afterwards? The answer is not many, because we have seen reports of up to a 300% rise in fly-tipping in certain areas and the impact this is having on our communities and countryside is unacceptable. We must all remember that fly-tipping is not a victimless crime and has a significant impact on rural areas and wildlife.
Many local authorities have had to shut waste recycling centres at this time and are concentrating on keeping kerbside collections going. So, we all have a responsibility to do our bit, never more so than at this difficult time and we are calling on everyone to dispose of their waste legally. You could face prosecution if you are caught fly-tipping or giving your rubbish to a rogue waste disposal system.
Getting rid of your waste during COVID-19
If you are having a clear out, please:
Local authorities are ultimately responsible for household waste and we advise you to check with your local authority for up-to-date information on collection and recycling centres.
You can download and share this fly-tipping infographic here.
You can also read our brief on fly-tipping here.
