Dumping on Britain

On the 4th May, 2005, at 7pm BST, the BBC broadcast a programme called "Dumping on Britain". The documentary followed the Environment Agency in its investigations into illegal dumping all around Britain.

I'd like to bring to your attention a comment by one of the Agency workers. He pointed out that if you see somebody with waste out of hours it's probable that the waste is going to be illegally dumped. After all, it's very unlikely that the correct facilities for legal waste disposal are going to be open late at night - when most illegal dumpers are going to be operating.

The BBC site that accompanies the programme says:

Illegal dumping costs taxpayers tens of millions of pounds each year and causes serious damage to the environment. Very few of those responsible are caught and tip-offs from members of the public are often vital in bringing those responsible to justice

The site also links to the Environment Agency's advice for people wanting to report illegal dumping.

It makes me so angry when areas of the countryside - and our towns - are used by ruthless ripoff merchants trying to make a fast buck by totally ignoring the plight of the environment. With a little extra vigilance we can all help to stop these crimes.

caldini