Waste and how we deal with it continues to be one of the greatest environmental challenges facing Scotland. This issue of SEPA View focuses on a variety of aspects of waste management including the recently formed fly-tipping forum.

Fly-tipping is an issue that shouldn’t exist and it really annoys me when I see illegally dumped waste scarring our beautiful country. There is no excuse for fly-tipping. Domestic items can be taken to Council-run civic amenity sites where they can be recycled if possible or dumped and if items are very bulky the Council will arrange a special uplift at minimal or no charge. We are appealing to local community groups and organisations that are interested in the care of the natural environment to assist in this matter. Any member of the public witnessing the illegal dumping of waste should note the vehicle registration or company name and immediately report it to SEPA via the pollution report line:

0800 80 70 60.

I constantly stress the need for education in waste matters – we are striving to achieve a situation where everyone in the country reduces, reuses or recycles. Good practice is featured in an inspirational article on a recycling project in Oregon, USA that has led to economic and social development within a community.

Ever wondered what happens to the mounds of waste at big summer events in Scotland? Leading by example, the Edinburgh International Book Festival employed a Recycling Manager for the duration of their stay in Charlotte Square this year. His success is a credit to the old edict ‘think global act local’.

SEPA action plans are a proactive weapon in our battle to secure environmental improvements across Scotland. Featured are four very different localised plans that have been successful in creating improvements in their communities.

Like any organisation, SEPA itself has negative environmental impacts, but we are striving to set an example and lead on good practice. Just how we are going about it and how we are doing is featured here.

Campbell Gemmell

SEPA Chief Executive



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