Department of the Environment reminds that burning of household waste is illegal

Published by BBN Staff at March 27, 2020

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Posted: Friday, March 27, 2020. 6:48 pm CST.

By BBN Staff: Today, the Department of the Environment (DOE) reminded the public that the burning of household and yard waste in both urban and rural areas is prohibited.

The DOE said that it has continuously been receiving reports of persons burning their garbage and stressed that doing so has many adverse effects.

“This prevalent and harmful practice continues to greatly reduce the air quality for residents and threatens life and property from fires, especially around this time of the year, due to the dry season,” the DOE said. ” The burning of waste emits invisible but harmful substances into the air that are breathed in by residents in nearby communities, including vulnerable persons such as the elderly, babies, and those suffering from respiratory diseases.”

The DOE added that given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the burning of household garbage and yard waste may contribute to reduced health in persons, especially those who are most vulnerable. The department also stressed that air pollution is regulated under the Pollution Regulations, which states that it is illegal to allow or permit contaminants to be emitted or discharged either directly or indirectly into the air from sources without a permit from the DOE.

“The DOE calls on all persons to discontinue this harmful practice of burning waste in and near communities, whether in towns, cities or villages, private or public properties, to maintain air quality for all residents, especially at this critical time,” the DOE added.

The DOE’s statement concluded noting that the department will be working with regulatory agencies and municipal bodies to find and prosecute those who are committing this offense.

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