Last week, officers from Natural Resources Wales, Fly-tipping Action Wales, South Wales Police, DVSA and Caerphilly County Borough Council joined forces in a coordinated multi-agency stop and search operation targeting illegal waste carriers operating across the Gelligaer & Merthyr Common. These rogue operators often collect waste from households and businesses without the correct licenses, contributing to fly-tipping, environmental damage, and undermining legitimate waste businesses. The operation was part of a wider campaign to raise awareness of everyone’s legal responsibility when it comes to waste disposal.
During the operation, officers stopped and inspected multiple vehicles and several enforcement notices were issued. This proactive enforcement sends a clear message: illegal waste activity will not be tolerated. But enforcement is only one part of the solution — public awareness and responsibility are just as vital.
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, every householder has a legal duty of care to ensure their waste is disposed of correctly. This means only using registered waste carriers, asking for a waste transfer note or receipt, recording the carrier’s registration number, and never handing over waste to someone who knocks on your door without ID or paperwork. If your waste ends up fly-tipped, you could be held responsible — even if you paid someone to take it away.
Before handing over your waste, it’s essential to check that the carrier is registered with Natural Resources Wales. You can do this online via our publicly available waste carriers register
Illegal waste activity damages our environment and wildlife, costs taxpayers millions in clean-up, harms local communities, and undermines legitimate businesses. By staying informed and making responsible choices, you’re helping protect your community and the environment.
If you see suspicious waste activity or fly-tipping, report it to your local council. Together, we can stop waste crime and keep our communities clean and safe.