Island Businesses Reminded Of Legal Waste Disposal Rules

Businesses, contractors and tradespeople on the Isle of Wight are being reminded of their legal responsibilities when disposing of waste.

The Isle of Wight Council says some professional waste producers may be unaware of the rules around commercial waste and how they differ from household waste.

Under the Waste Duty of Care, anyone producing, carrying, keeping, treating or disposing of commercial waste must make sure it's managed correctly and transferred only to authorised waste carriers or facilities.

Commercial waste isn't limited to rubbish from shops, offices and factories.

It can also include waste from construction, demolition, maintenance, landscaping, agricultural and other trade activities.

The council says waste produced through work carried out at a customer's home is generally classed as commercial waste.

Businesses and contractors must take reasonable steps to keep waste secure, prevent it from escaping, accurately describe what is being transferred and complete the appropriate waste transfer documentation.

They must also check that any waste carrier they use is properly registered.

Businesses transporting their own waste may also need to register as waste carriers, depending on their activities and the type of waste involved.

Residents having building, maintenance or landscaping work carried out are being encouraged to ask contractors how waste will be disposed of, and to be cautious of unusually cheap waste disposal services.

The council says professional contractors should be able to demonstrate that waste is being disposed of legally and responsibly.

It says following the rules can help reduce fly-tipping and protect the Island's environment.