Criminal gangs face a fresh crackdown over illegal waste, with new powers designed to drive rogue traders out of the sector. Under the measures, criminals will no longer be able to dodge the rules by buying up a legitimate waste business, as officers will be able to block bad actors from getting a permit in the first place.
Extended restrictions on dumping sites
Strengthened powers will also restrict criminals' access to the dumping grounds they create, which lead to huge waste sites. The length of restriction notices will be extended to at least seven days, while restriction orders will now last for at least 12 months, blocking criminals from accessing these sites for longer.
Waste management was famously the cover used by Tony Soprano in the hit show The Sopranos, when he was in fact a mafia boss.
Closing loopholes at every point
Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle said: "Criminals have been playing the system for too long – using fake IDs to move waste or operating under shell companies – that has meant they have evaded detection and made easy money."
"Legitimate waste operators have had to compete with criminals who cut corners, dodge taxes and dump toxic waste in our fields, rivers and communities. That's not just unfair, it's dangerous, and it's a stain on an industry that plays a vital role in this country's environmental future. This ends now."
"We're closing in at every point of the waste journey, from who can get a permit in the first place to day-to-day waste movement. We will close every loophole they are exploiting and shut down their access for good."
Bigger role for National Crime Agency
There will also be a bigger role for the National Crime Agency, with enhanced intelligence sharing, mentoring and specialist support with the Environment Agency. Ministers say the NCA's experience in tackling organised crime can help dismantle the criminal networks in the waste sector.
Last week the PM announced fines for criminal gangs who illegally dump mountains of rubbish will rise by 16 times from £300 to £5,000. Under the latest crackdown, Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) issued by the Environment Agency are set to rise from £300 to £5,000. Offences could include the unauthorised disposal of waste or failing to treat it correctly.
