Press Release
For immediate release

CIWM Welcomes News Government Reforms to Tackle Waste Crime

CIWM has strongly welcomed the government’s newly announced reforms to tackle waste crime, calling it a "significant step" toward eliminating rogue operators and closing damaging loopholes that have long plagued the sector.

Under the major crackdown announced today by Defra, the Environment Agency, and Minister Mary Creagh CBE MP, the current outdated waste carrier registration system will be completely overhauled. Moving away from the basic, easily exploited sign-up process, a rigorous, permit-based system will be brought into force in 2027.

The new measures are designed to ensure that waste handlers actively prove they meet professional standards before operating. Legitimate operators will face advanced background checks, identity verification, and mandatory technical competence requirements. To increase transparency and protect the public, operators will also be required to visibly display their permit numbers in advertisements and on their vehicles, making rogue traders easily identifiable.

Enforcement is being significantly strengthened to back these changes. The Environment Agency will receive enhanced powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices, while lawbreakers mishandling waste will face much tougher penalties, including custodial sentences of up to five years in prison.

Responding to the announcement, Dan Cooke at CIWM said:

"It’s good to see these strong and practical measures being implemented to target cowboys and crooks operating at the fringes of our sector. We welcome this significant step as part of the government’s wider Waste Crime Action Plan.

CIWM and the UK’s professional resources and waste sector have been calling for this loophole to be closed for some time, so kudos to the government and regulators for committing to this positive change.

We all have a responsibility to stay vigilant, and to report suspected illegal waste tipping and transporting. This should be made easier when these changes become law."

CIWM has long campaigned for these regulatory loopholes to be closed to protect communities, safeguard the environment, and prevent legitimate businesses from being undercut by illegal activity. As the sector prepares for the transition in 2027, CIWM looks forward to supporting its members, regulators, and the wider industry through these positive changes.

Press contact:
Kacie Foskett, Brand Marketing & Communications Manager
T: +44 (0) 1604 620426
E: kacie.foskett@ciwm.co.uk