Electronic Specifier’s CEO battles against illegal waste dumping

The Environment Agency (EA) has launched an investigation into the dumping of this waste, which includes electronic and electrical goods, and which has transformed this Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) into a scene more akin to a landfill site than a nature sanctuary.

Spanning approximately four acres off Bethersden Road, Ashford, the waste has accumulated to heights of 12 feet.

In response, local residents and campaigners, including Electronic Specifier’s CEO, Steve Regnier, have rallied under the 'Rescue Hoads Wood' initiative, urging immediate action through a petition directed at the Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. The campaign has garnered substantial support, with over 1,200 signatures so far.

The severity of the situation prompted the EA to secure the site, implementing strict measures to prevent further illegal entry and dumping. Concrete blocks and warning notices now stand as barriers to protect the wood, with the clear message that any violation will lead to prosecution.

A forthcoming community meeting, featuring Damian Green MP and representatives from local councils and environmental agencies, aims to forge a path towards the swift clean-up of Hoad's Wood.

Steve Regnier, CEO, Electronic Specifier has noted that a portion of the dumped material appears to be electronic and electrical goods: “The issue of waste dumping in our local environments is a matter of grave concern. It's not just about responsible e-waste management and recycling; it's about basic respect for our community and the world we live in. I’m committed to supporting the efforts to clean up and prevent waste dumping. We believe in the importance of maintaining a healthy, clean environment for all, and we urge everyone to join us in this crucial endeavour."

Responsible e-waste recycling is a topic close to Electronic Specifier’s heart. E-waste, if not properly disposed of, can release harmful substances into the environment, posing risks to wildlife and human health.

According to the UN, 8kg of e-waste per person was produced worldwide in 2023 – with 61.3 million tonnes of electronic waste being discarded. Only 17.4% of this waste will be recorded as being properly collected, treated, and recycled globally. And the UK is reputedly one of the worst offenders.

From laptops, to smartphones, printers, and office electronics, ideally none of these items should ever end up in landfill, particularly as we become more and more aware of the scarcity of the precious metals and minerals used to produce them.

Recycling of electronic items needs to be done properly. It’s possible to find out where best to take e-waste by using the Recycle Your Electricals site to perform a postcode search.

The incident at Hoad's Wood serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to manage waste efficiently and ethically.

You can read more and sign the petition here: https://rescuehoadswood.org/