The government has announced a tough crackdown on waste crime, introducing a new permit-based system from 2027 that will require waste handlers to undergo identity, criminal record and technical checks before receiving a permit. Operators will also have to display their permit number on advertising, including vans, making it easier for the public to report unlicensed operators.
Under the new rules, those found mishandling waste face up to five years in jail. The Environment Agency will gain stronger powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices. The measures form part of the government's recently announced waste crime action plan.
The crackdown follows public outrage over a 500ft-long mountain of rubbish near the River Cherwell in Oxfordshire, containing up to 21,000 tonnes of waste. The illegal tip, just off the A34 in Kidlington, has been described by the Environment Agency as 'an atrocious and deliberate attack on our environment'.
Campaigners earlier exposed weaknesses in the current system when a cow was legally approved to dispose of household waste. Ann Maidment, director of the Country Land and Business Association, applied for a licence for her cow Beau Vine. Under the existing paper-based registration process, waste carriers face limited identity and background checks, allowing organised criminals and rogue operators to enter the system.
Waste Minister Mary Creagh said: 'Waste cowboys have abused the system for too long. Through our Waste Crime Action Plan, we're introducing rigorous background checks for waste traders, shutting down corrupt operators and kicking them out of the industry.' Environment Agency chief executive Philip Duffy added: 'These reforms give us the tools we need to fight back.'
