Defra has recently introduced a new waste policy ‘Reforming the waste carrier broker and dealer system‘ to help tackle waste crime. The agency plans to reform the carrier broker and dealer system, which it say currently prevents action being taken against high risk operators.
Under the existing regime, ‘enforcement options are limited and the Environment agency can only refuse or revoke registrations if set criteria are met.’
A lack of differentiation between smaller and large service providers, the type of waste and risk factors associated with processing it are cited as key downfalls of the existing regime. The main aims of reform are to ‘provide a wider level of regulatory tools, greater flexibility around enforcement, increased checks at application stage and funding for compliance monitoring activities.’
“It is encouraging to see Defra moving to reform the waste carrier, broker and dealer system in the UK. With waste crime estimated to cost the economy £1 bn annually, stronger powers are essential to clamp down on rogue operators causing serious environmental and economic harm in local communities,” said David Gudgeon, Head of External Affairs, Reconomy Connect.
“This policy paper builds on the government’s recently announced crackdown by giving councils new powers to seize and destroy vehicles used by waste criminals,” he continued. “The introduction of a Digital Waste Tracking system from October 2026 will also provide greater visibility over waste from households, businesses and industry. Together, these measures represent a step change in enforcement.”
