Stricter background checks to be introduced for waste carriers
New reforms are set to tighten the net on waste criminals with tougher sentences for those illegally dumping waste, and advanced background checks to help put rogue operators out of business.
As part of the major crackdown on waste criminals, underpinned by the government’s Waste Crime Action Plan, laws being laid this week will require waste handlers to prove they are qualified to transport waste.
The current registration system is broken and outdated, relying on a basic registration process with limited identity and background checks. This has been exploited by rogue operators with a poor track record of dumping waste and leaving a huge clean-up bill.
The new and tougher permit-based system will be brought into force in 2027, and require waste handlers to undergo identity, criminal record and technical checks before receiving a permit. They will also need to display their permit number in advertising, including on their vans, making it easier for the public to report unlicensed operators.
For those mishandling waste, they will now face up to five years in prison. The move to permitting will also give the Environment Agency stronger powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices.
If someone pays to have their rubbish taken away, they should be confident it won’t end up in a field a week later. These reforms will give households peace of mind their waste is being handled correctly and punish those who break the law.
Waste Minister Mary Creagh said:
Philip Duffy, Chief Executive at the Environment Agency, said:
These changes come as part of the government’s new Waste Crime Action Plan which sets out a wide-ranging crackdown on waste criminals, from those dumping rubbish on high streets and roadsides to operators running large illegal waste sites. These measures will strengthen regulations and make it harder for waste criminals to operate, as well as introducing stricter penalties for those caught attempting to abuse the system.
This legislation follows recent announcements on the game-changing digital waste tracking service and powerful legislative changes under the Policing and Crime Act that mean fly-tippers risk losing their licence under tougher court powers.
If you see fly-tipping or suspect illegal waste activity, report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org.
Kate Johnston at the independent charity Crimestoppers said:
Dan Cooke at the Charted Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) said:
Notes to Editors
The key changes that will be brought into force in 2027 will include:
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