04/11/2005 - The Environment Agency today (4 November 2005) warned waste cheats that unless they have money to burn they should think again before using bonfire night as a cover for flytipping or burning waste illegally.
Barbara Young, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency said:

"We don’t want to stop people from enjoying bonfire night, but we do want to make sure all bonfires are legitimate and have as little impact on air quality and the environment as possible. Our officers will hot be on the heels of anyone plotting to fly-tip waste on community bonfires or illegally burn waste rather than disposing of it legitimately."

"Burning wastes such as plastics and demolition waste is against the law and those who disregard the rules are not only harming the environment but risk a hefty fine and damage to their reputation."

The Environment Agency has successfully prosecuted companies and individuals found to be burning waste illegally under the guise of Guy Fawkes. In one such case, a huge bonfire billowing thick smoke across the M4 (roadway) prompted investigations by the Environment Agency and found a skip hire company guilty of burning items including metal, plastics and polystyrene. A quantity of waste equivalent in size to 15 articulated lorries parked side-by-side burned over a four day period at the site.

Offences in both November 2002 and November 2003 resulted in the company and one of its employees being ordered to pay £20,000 in fines for unlawful keeping and disposal of waste. Helicopter footage showing the ferocity of the fire was used as evidence in court.

The Environment Agency stressed that legitimate bonfires at homes and at organised events are not prohibited, however people are reminded not to burn certain materials which may be harmful to the environment or human health.
Ben Bradshaw, Local Environment Minister added:

"The kind of people who fly-tip are selfish and opportunistic. They chuck their rubbish everywhere and anywhere, and bonfires are often a favourite dumping ground.
"This year, with the new powers we have given them, local authorities and the Environment Agency will be paying extra special attention to local bonfires to catch these waste cheats. And if they are caught, they can expect hefty fines, and even imprisonment."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Tips for what to burn and what NOT to put on your bonfire
Only burn dry garden waste
Do NOT burn plastics, oils, household rubbish, aerosols, rubber tyres or anything containing foam or paint
Never use old engine oil, methylated spirit or petrol to light the fire
Advice for anyone organising a legitimate bonfire party for Guy Fawkes' night:
use safe, non-toxic material that comes from a known source
avoid burning of plastics, aerosols, tyres or canisters as they may produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode causing injury
build your bonfire as close as you can to 5 November or the day of your event to guard against fly-tippers dumping on the fire site and to reduce the risk that wildlife might get inside.
Anyone who is unsure of the correct way to store or dispose of waste can get free advice from the Environment Agency by calling 08708 506 506.