A new online tool has launched to help residents avoid rogue waste carriers.
The scheme, called WasteGuard, aims to reduce fly-tipping and make it easier for residents to identify legitimate waste carriers.
Jeremy Owenson, portfolio holder for environment on Malvern Hills District Council, said: “Rogue traders often undercut legitimate businesses and then dispose of waste illegally, leaving residents and communities to deal with the consequences.
“WasteGuard gives people a straightforward way to find trusted providers while supporting our wider efforts to crack down on fly-tipping and keep our district looking its best.”
WasteGuard allows users to obtain quotes from verified waste carriers who hold the correct licences and follow proper disposal practices.
By choosing from the list, residents can fulfill their legal duties under the Household Waste Duty of Care, which requires them to ensure their waste is handled responsibly.
Although residents are not required to use carriers listed on WasteGuard, the councils advise following the SCRAP code.
The SCRAP code stands for:
Failure to follow these steps could result in serious penalties. If waste from a household is found to have been fly-tipped, the resident could face a £600 fixed penalty notice or be prosecuted and fined up to £5,000 in court.
David Hilton, owner of Hilton Clearance, Cllr Beverley Hardman, Wychavon’s executive board member for environment, Cllr Jeremy Owenson, portfolio holder for environment and Tom Day from Hilton Clearance (Image: Malvern Hills District Council)
So far, three companies have joined the WasteGuard scheme, which forms part of the councils’ wider campaign, “Who’s taking your waste out?”.
Hilton Clearance, based in Kempsey, was the first business to sign up.
Dave Hilton, owner of the company, said: “We are extremely proud to be recognised by WasteGuard.
“As a fully licensed and trusted waste carrier, we are committed to operating legally, ethically and responsibly, giving our customers complete confidence that their waste is handled correctly from collection through to disposal.
“This accreditation reflects the high standards we maintain every day. We provide Waste Transfer Notes, use authorised recycling and disposal facilities, and work hard to keep Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire clean and tidy.”
Councillor Beverley Hardman, executive board member for environment at Wychavon District Council, said: “Most residents want to do the right thing when getting rid of unwanted items, but it can sometimes be difficult to know who to trust.
“WasteGuard takes away that uncertainty, helping residents meet their responsibilities and play a part in tackling fly-tipping.”
Residents can learn more about WasteGuard and find verified waste carriers at www.malvernhills.gov.uk/waste-and-recycling/wasteguard.
