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Organized Crime Exploits 'Low-Risk, High-Reward' Waste Dumping in UK
28 Oct
Summary
- Organized crime groups make millions from illegal waste dumping and burning
- Lack of enforcement makes waste crime a "low-risk, high-reward" criminal enterprise
- Authorities fail to pursue reports, utilize powers, or prosecute serious waste crimes
According to a report by the UK's House of Lords, organized crime groups are exploiting the country's lax enforcement against waste crimes, making millions every year from illegal dumping and burning of rubbish. The Lords committee found that "criminality is endemic in the waste sector," with at least 38 million tonnes of waste being illegally managed annually, leading to serious environmental, economic, and social consequences.
The committee has now demanded that officials conduct a "root and branch review" of the government's response to waste crime within the next 18 months. They highlighted the "woeful" record of successful prosecutions and penalties, noting that the lack of effective enforcement has allowed organized criminals to see the waste sector as a "low-risk opportunity to make large sums of money."
The report cited the "egregious events" at Hoad's Wood in Kent, where over 30,000 tonnes of waste were illegally dumped over several years, despite repeated public reports. The committee criticized the Environment Agency and police for failing to utilize their powers and expertise to tackle this serious and organized criminal activity.
