Hazardous Waste Awareness Levels Low

Only one in five motor vehicle service and repair garages are aware of the hazardous waste regulations due to come into place in coming weeks, according to new figures revealed today by the Environment Agency.

The findings, which are the result of a survey of more than 1000 small and medium sized businesses in England and Wales found that only 17 per cent of garages interviewed knew about the new regulations which will take effect from 16 July 2005.

Under the EA’s enforcement policy anyone found to be illegally dumping or deliberately trying to pass off hazardous waste as non-hazardous could face prosecution.

Liz Parkes, head of waste regulation at the Environment Agency, said: “The new rules will mean that there will be more businesses producing hazardous waste. These results show that many are not aware that their waste is hazardous and must be managed very carefully.

“We have worked closely with industry, set up workshops and roadshows, and published guidance to raise awareness of the changes so everyone should be aware that these rules are coming. Anyone who wants more information can call our helpline or log onto our website.

“With regards to enforcement, we will be targeting our routine checks where we can have the greatest impact. We will continue to come down hard on anyone that knowingly flouts the rules.”