Fight Fly-Tipping Fortnight: Make sure your waste ends up in the right place

Whether you're clearing out a garage, replacing furniture or tackling a garden project, Fight Fly-Tipping Fortnight is a good reminder to think carefully about what happens to your waste after it leaves your property.

Before paying someone to take waste away, take a few minutes to check they're authorised to carry it. Rogue traders often offer cheap waste collection services but then dump rubbish illegally to avoid disposal costs.

Could someone else use it?

Before throwing something away, ask yourself whether it still has life left in it. Items in good working order could be:

• Sold through Facebook Marketplace
• Given away on Freegle
• Donated to a charity shop for resale

Reusing items helps reduce waste, supports local communities and can even put a little money back in your pocket. Disposal should always be the last resort.

Protect yourself from rogue traders

Many people don't realise that they have a legal Duty of Care when arranging for their waste to be removed. If your rubbish is fly-tipped and can be traced back to you, you could still be held responsible, even if you paid someone else to take it away.

To avoid being caught out:

• Ask to see the person's waste carrier registration number
• Check it on the Environment Agency's public register
• Ask for a receipt
• Keep a record of who collected your waste

Taking these simple steps can help ensure your waste is disposed of legally and responsibly.

Need to get rid of bulky items?

If you have large items that can't be reused, Stroud District Council offers a bulky waste collection service.

Collections cost £25 for up to three items, with additional items charged at £5 each. Residents who receive Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support are eligible for a discounted rate of £5 for up to three items.

By checking who is taking your waste and considering reuse options first, you can help protect the environment, support a cleaner district and avoid unwanted fines.