What happens when waste is unaccountable? When it’s dumped on the side of the road or chucked in the back of a skip? And what if it’s toxic and lethal to the community?
The answer – a full-scale investigation.
This news comes after the Northern Ireland Environmental Agency (NIEA) uncovered 20,000 tonnes of illegal waste in four different areas of County Tyrone.
Included amidst the tonnes of rubbish were traces of medical waste that authorities believe could have originated from the Republic of Ireland.
After initial probing, the NIEA has sent 1,200 leaflets to local residents urging anyone to come forward if they know where the waste has come from.
Searching for suspects
Speaking to the BBC, Derek Williamson from NIEA’s environmental crime unit said, “The individuals carrying out these crimes are using lorries, diggers and machinery to transport, offload and bury this waste.
“We are asking if anyone has seen any similar activity which you may be concerned about to contact us.”
The dangers of waste
The more waste that litters your streets, the higher the chance of potentially deadly bacteria spreading through your community.
This risk is heightened where medical waste is concerned. In an environment rife with illness and superbugs, the proliferation of viruses is inevitable.
Our advice – don’t take that risk.
If you’re a medical establishment, hire professionals to safely and conscientiously dispose of your waste. For more information, get in touch.
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