With illegal waste activities costing the UK economy an estimated £1 billion annually, the survey aims to assess the scale of waste crime and shape future enforcement measures. / Credit: Serenity Images23 via Shutterstock

The Environment Agency has launched its third National Waste Crime Survey to assess the scale and impact of illegal waste activities across England.

 The survey, open for three weeks from 3 February 2025, invites packaging industry professionals and the general public to share their experiences and insights to help combat waste crime.

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Waste crime and its impact on packaging

Waste crime includes illegal waste burning, unauthorised waste shipping, and operating unlawful waste sites, all of which pose serious risks to the packaging sector.

The Environment Agency estimates that around 18% of waste in England is managed illegally, costing the economy approximately £1bn each year.

By gathering feedback from packaging businesses and industry stakeholders, the agency aims to measure the extent of these activities and identify the most effective ways to deter offenders.

The role of packaging companies in waste management

The survey plays a vital role in shaping national waste management policies, which directly affect the packaging industry.

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Information collected will help the Environment Agency assess how businesses handle waste, their willingness to report waste crimes, and the effectiveness of current regulations.

Previous insights have contributed to a significant reduction in illegal waste sites, with the total number dropping to 344 last year—the lowest on record.

Steve Molyneux, Deputy Director of Waste and Resources Regulation at the Environment Agency, highlighted the need for participation, stating that the survey is essential for gathering first-hand insights from those directly affected by waste crime.

 “Your input allows us to continue targeting offenders and protecting our environment, communities, and the legitimate waste industry,” he said.

Government and industry collaboration to tackle waste crime

Waste Minister Mary Creagh reinforced the government’s commitment to addressing illegal waste activities, describing waste criminals as a serious threat to businesses and the wider economy.

She urged packaging companies to take part in the survey, emphasising that waste crime damages industry credibility and results in unfair competition.

The Environment Agency is calling on all stakeholders in the packaging industry to complete the survey and share it widely to ensure comprehensive participation.

The survey is available online and will remain open until 24 February 2025.