The new mobile application called ‘FlyMapper’, enables organisations to record fly-tipping incidents using a GPS system and request a clearance service.
Biffa will attend and remove the waste typically within 24 hours, depending on the scale of the incident. The waste management company said that it would process the fly-tipped waste in the most “environmentally responsible way possible”.
Unfortunate
Commercial development manager at Biffa, George Pearce, said: “It’s unfortunate to see that the current crisis is serving to exacerbate the already significant and growing problem of fly-tipping. It is a crime that damages our health, the environment and businesses in what is already an extremely challenging time. I hope our new initiative to help tackle fly-tipping will provide some relief.”
Mr Pearce added: “I would also take this opportunity to warn individuals and businesses against the risk of employing unregistered waste removal services, which have become more prolific since the lockdown began. These services are illegal, can be part of organises crime groups and are often the perpetrators of fly-tipping.”
Reports
Fly-tipping removal has been declared a high priority service by DEFRA during the coronavirus crisis as a build up of waste poses public health concerns and some local authorities have reported sharp rises in fly-tipping since lockdown began following HWRC closures and other waste service disruptions.
The Countryside Alliance have described a 300% rise in fly-tipping incidents in some areas.
Sarah Lee, of the Countryside Alliance, said: “We welcome this initiative by Biffa to tackle the increase in fly-tipping at these uncertain times. It shouldn’t need saying that driving to dump rubbish in your town at the side of the road or in the countryside is not essential travel. Not only are you committing an offence by littering, but you are also ignoring guidance that has been introduced to stop the spread of this dangerous virus. Please remember that fly-tipping is not a victimless crime.”
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