Three arrests made in recycling fraud investigation

A 59-year-old man and 42-year-old man were detained at a property in Bolton, while a 21-year-old woman was arrested at a property in Chorley.

After being interviewed, the individuals have been released pending ongoing investigations.

Lauren Pigg, Deputy Director for Environmental Markets and Regulation at the Environment Agency, said: “We are putting an end to fraudulent activity in the recycling sector, which undermines law-abiding businesses and harms our precious environment.

“The Environment Agency is now thoroughly examining all the evidence gathered in these raids to further progress the investigation and deliver justice.”

The EA worked with the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU) to make the arrests.

DCI Chris Maddocks from the NWROCU’s Economic Crime Team said: “This operation highlights the importance of strong collaboration between law enforcement and regulatory partners.

“We remain committed to tackling fraud in all its forms and to supporting partner organisations such as the Environment Agency in holding those responsible to account. We will continue to ensure that organised criminal activity in this space is identified and disrupted at every level.”

Packaging Producer Responsibility Regulations

The Packaging Producer Responsibility Regulations were introduced to oblige the producers of waste packaging to contribute towards the financial cost of recycling and disposing the waste.

It applies to packaging made from materials such as plastic, glass and cardboard.

Businesses that meet the criteria are required to prove they have made a financial contribution by purchasing credits, known as Packaging Export Recovery Notes (PERNs), from waste reprocessors or exporters.

The credits have a monetary value which means organised criminal gangs can look to infiltrate the sector to engage in fraud and money laundering.

In 2024, the EA launched a new Economic Crime Unit to boost its efforts to tackle money laundering and carry out financial investigations in the waste sector.

The EA has called for members of the public with information that may assist with its investigation to contact its 24-hour hotline on 0800 807060.

Information can also be anonymously reported via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or through its website.