A new national survey has revealed that waste crime remains a serious and underreported problem across the UK, with an estimated 20% of all waste potentially being illegally managed.
The Environment Agency’s National Waste Crime Survey highlights that while the scale and impact of illegal waste activity continues to grow, only 27% of incidents are reported. Waste is often misdescribed to evade regulation or avoid landfill tax, with landowners, local communities and legitimate businesses bearing the brunt of environmental harm and clean-up costs.
The financial toll is stark, with waste crime estimated to cost the UK economy £1 billion each year. Despite some improvements, respondents to the survey remain concerned that the Environment Agency lacks the resources to effectively deter criminal operations.
“These results are alarming and highlight that the UK continues to be plagued by rogue waste operators who cause severe environmental and economic harm to local communities,” said David Gudgeon, Head of External Affairs at Reconomy Connect.
The government has pledged a crackdown, granting councils new powers to seize and destroy vehicles used in waste crime, alongside the rollout of a Digital Waste Tracking system from October 2026.
While these measures mark progress, Gudgeon stressed that deeper change is needed: “To truly tackle the root of the problem, there must be a much greater focus on transitioning to a circular economy.”
He added: “Closing circularity gaps by doubling down on recycling, reuse and resource preservation is the most effective way to protect local environments, boost economic resilience and future-proof businesses.”
The survey reinforces the need for investment in sustainable waste infrastructure and circular practices to reduce emissions, cut costs and protect communities.
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