Litter
The Environmental protection Act, introduced in 1990 made littering a crime subject to a maximum fine of £2,500. The Act sets out standards of cleanliness for public places. These standards combine visual assessment of the amount of litter with fixed deadlines for cleaning up. This approach has changed the way councils operate. Instead of regular rounds, many councils now use a more flexible approach so they can respond quickly to unexpected problems.
Litter doesn't just spoil how things look - it can also be a health hazard. Floor litter can attract rats and flies, which spread diseases. Dog fouling in public areas (another form of litter) is a serious health risk.
Litter can also be lethal to wildlife. For example, drinks left in discarded bottles often attract small animals like mice, which can squeeze into the bottles but may drown or be unable to climb the smooth, sloping surfaces to get out. Discarded fishing lines can maim and kill water birds. Plastic bags can look like food to cows, sheep, horses and marine life, but can kill if swallowed.
Who do I report Litter to?
All incidents of fly-tipping should be reported to your district or borough council.
For more information on litter campaigns, please visit the Encams website. |