Crime Solicitors

The Environment Agency is working with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), local councils and HMRC on Operation Salamander, to stop and spot check vehicles carrying waste in Thurrock in Essex, North Greenwich in London and Bushy in Hertfordshire.

All waste carriers have a Duty of Care to ensure they deal with and dispose of waste correctly and should be registered with the Environment Agency.

In spot checks carried out on Wednesday, 13 January, a total of 71 vehicles were pulled over, leading to duty of care offences in relation to 26 vehicles stopped.

The Environment Agency says this could lead to potential enforcement action after further investigation.

Enforcement Team Leader from the Environment Agency, Lesley Robertson, said:

“We want to protect people and communities from the impact that illegally transported and disposed of waste can have, thereby creating a level playing field for legitimate operators.

“To help us, we encourage people to check with the Environment Agency first to make sure the company or person they use to take their waste away is registered.

“Operation Salamander sends a message to waste carriers that they must fulfil their duty of care and make sure they handle and dispose of their waste properly – or they may get caught.

“Companies who carry waste must register with the Environment Agency if they transport waste as part of their business, buy, sell or dispose of waste –
or arrange for someone else to buy, sell or dispose of waste.

“They also need to classify their waste – and know if it is hazardous or non-hazardous – so they can deal with it correctly, register their premises if they produce or store hazardous waste, store the waste safely and securely and follow the rules for moving waste from business premises,” she added.

Members of the public can check if a waste company is registered with the Environment Agency on 03708 506 506 and at www.gov.uk/waste-carrier-or-broker-registration.

Duncan Lewis Business Crime Lawyers

Duncan Lewis crime lawyers can advise companies and individuals at any stage of a charge involving public protection offences such as breaches in regulations governing the carrying and disposal of waste – as well as charges relating to fly tipping, contaminating watercourses, use of permitted land, management of hazardous materials, and fisheries offences.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and a criminal defence solicitor can attend interviews with investigating authorities such as the Environment Agency and local authorities.

For expert legal advice on environmental offences, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 0333 772 0409.