By Observer Features
Fly-tipping, the illegal dumping of waste, poses numerous dangers to the environment, public health, and the community.
One of the key dangers resulting from fly-tipping is environmental pollution. When hazardous materials, such as chemicals, oils, and non-biodegradable waste, are discarded, it can contaminate and disrupt natural habitats and wildlife. Animals can ingest or become entangled in the rubbish, leading to injury, illness, or death. Plastic waste, in particular, poses a significant threat to marine life when it enters rivers and oceans.
There are multiple health risks that come from dumped waste, attracting pests such as rats, flies, and mosquitoes, which can spread diseases. Accumulated waste of combustible materials can also be a fire hazard. These fires can be difficult to control, posing a threat to nearby properties, wildlife, and people.
Living on an Island that relies heavily on tourism revenue, we should also remember that fly-tipping can deter visitors by spoiling the visual appeal of our beautiful natural landscape.
Fly-tipping is, of course, also illegal. The maximum fine for fly-tipping was increased last year from £400 to £1,000.
Alternatives to fly-tipping
Instead of resorting to improper waste management, and being responsible for its detrimental consequences, there are a number of solutions that local business on the Island are ready to help you with.
One alternative is hiring a skip, especially when undertaking construction, renovation or large-scale projects. This is a versatile option, as skips come in different sizes, allowing you to choose the right one for your specific needs. While there is a cost when hiring a skip, it can often be more cost-effective than other disposal methods, particularly if you have a significant amount to dispose of. You can also use large skip bags, which are especially useful when you need a longer time to collect the waste, or access would be a problem for a skip.
Using a waste service can be one of the most convenient methods of rubbish disposal. They typically provide scheduled pick-ups or drop-off services, based on your needs, and ensure that waste is disposed of properly and in accordance with environmental regulations.
Hazardous waste
Most household hazardous waste, such as paints, oils and household chemicals, can be taken to Lynnbottom household recycling centre in their original containers.
Hazardous materials such as explosives, radioactive material, or materials that are otherwise unstable and would present a risk to staff or the public, will need specialist collection and disposal. Contact the supplier of the material for disposal advice. If this is not possible, contact waste.contract@iow.gov.uk or call 823777 for advice.
Don’t throw batteries in your bin as this poses a fire and explosion risk. Take them to one of the drop-off points at supermarkets, shops across the Island, or use the household battery kerbside collection service. For more information on the battery collection service, visit iow.life/batterycollection.
Car batteries, however, should be taken to one of the household waste recycling centres. They can also be recycled at car dismantlers and scrapyards.
Check their licence!
If you run a business or are a home-owner, you are legally responsible for where any waste you produce ends up. That’s why you must ensure that anybody collecting your waste is registered with the Environment Agency. If they are not, your rubbish could end up being illegally dumped, and if the rubbish is traced back to you, you could face large fines.
Any business that carries waste professionally must also become a licensed waste carrier, including those that carry waste as part of their business, such as gardeners, builders or plumbers. Ask to see the certificate for anybody who removes waste from your premises, or call 0330 660 0832 and ask for a waste carrier validation check. You can also check on-line at iow.life/wastecarriers.
Gas bottles
Never place a gas bottle in with your general waste or in a skip, as they could explode in the landfill site and potentially cause serious injury.
You can return your empty bottles to the retailer or your original supplier if they offer a take back scheme.
If no other options are available, take your empty gas bottles to one of the household recycling centres and check with staff where to dispose of it. They will be collected by either Calor Gas or Flo Gas, and refilled for re-use.
Isle of Wight Observer