Fly-tipping warning as regulator vows to be ‘uncompromising’

An environment regulator has warned it will be “uncompromising” towards people fly-tipping as a new information portal is launched.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa), Zero Waste Scotland, local government body Cosla, and the Scottish Government have now launched a website – managingourwaste.scot – to give advice and updates on services.

It comes after some local authorities suspended or altered waste pick-ups and recycling centre services due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Squashing rubbish down in bins, home composting and holding on to large items have been suggested until recycling centres open.

Anyone with coronavirus symptoms is advised to place used tissues in a disposable rubbish bag, which should be placed in another bag, tied securely, kept separate from other waste and put aside for at least 72 hours before it is put out for collection.

Sepa chief executive Terry A’Hearn said his organisation has published guidance to help those struggling to dispose of waste.

He added: “Equally, we will be uncompromising towards those that choose to deliberately do the wrong thing.

“Remember, services that sound too good to be true often are and could lead to illegal fly-tipping, burning or illegal disposal.”

Iain Gulland, chief executive of Zero Waste Scotland, said: “Refuse collectors are working in exceptional conditions to maintain as many essential services as they can.

“Now is a good time to avoid wasting so much as this is ultimately the best way to help councils cope.

“We’d encourage everyone to visit the campaign website to find out how they can best manage their waste.”

Environment and climate change secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “We owe a massive thank-you to all those in the waste industry who are working hard to keep services running in challenging circumstances.

“While they do their best for us it’s vitally important that we do what we can to help them by following the advice on properly dealing with and reducing waste.”

Councillor Steven Heddle, Cosla environment and economy spokesman, said further changes may be needed to waste collection services.

He added: “This campaign shows how individuals and communities can help local authorities by reducing the amount of waste created.

“This is the right thing to do now but it will also help the environment in the longer term once we return to more normal lives.”