Used PPE littered across North East Lincolnshire
North East Lincolnshire Council have issued a warning in regard to used PPE which has been littered across the region.
Hair nets, plastic gloves and face masks are being dumped on a daily basis in North East Lincolnshire.
The Council have warned of the environmental and societal implications of littering, as well as the potential health hazard.
They have stated that anybody caught littering may face a fine of up to £200.
On their Facebook page, a spokesperson wrote:
“Since the Covid-19 outbreak, there has been a rise in used personal protective equipment (PPE) being discarded across the borough.
“There is NO excuse for this.
“We want our borough to be a clean, green and tidy place for everyone to enjoy.
“It’s not fair on our staff to have to deal with such litter, so please dispose of your waste properly.
“There are more than 800 street litter bins situated across NEL which can be used.
“Alternatively, take your litter home with you.”
Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and waste at North East Lincolnshire Council, said:
“It is unacceptable and unpleasant to leave your used PPE in the street.
“It creates an untidy borough and adds more strain on services having to clear this mess up. It’s not fair on our staff to have to deal with such litter.
“We have seen an increase in littering recently as people enjoy the outdoors during lockdown. You must be responsible and put your rubbish in a bin or take it home.
“If you leave litter on the beach, it can get into sea. It harms our wildlife and environment.”
Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, added:
“Littering is an antisocial and criminal act and will not be tolerated.
“Where we have evidence of those responsible for littering, they face a fine of up to £200.
“Council officers are out in the community and, where offences are witnessed, are empowered to issue fixed penalty notices to offenders.
“We will pursue people and businesses who discard of used PPE in this way.”
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