Waste regulation as currently set up is not effective enough at stopping waste crime or non-compliance. Regulation of the waste sector is not adequately addressing the rising problem of illegal waste dumping. We are encouraged by the Environment Agency’s recent enforcement action at a permitted landfill site where there was large-scale pollution. However, the widespread and increasing issue of illegal waste sites surpasses the Environment Agency’s powers. The Agency lacks the option of enforc...

Waste regulation as currently set up is not effective enough at stopping waste crime or non-compliance. Regulation of the waste sector is not adequately addressing the rising problem of illegal waste dumping. We are encouraged by the Environment Agency’s recent enforcement action at a permitted landfill site where there was large-scale pollution. However, the widespread and increasing issue of illegal waste sites surpasses the Environment Agency’s powers. The Agency lacks the option of enforcing civil powers against illegal sites and is restricted to the lengthier and more expensive route of criminal prosecutions. The Agency may have responde Type: conclusion | Number: 4 | Response status: response_pending