Burning private waste is often illegal or restricted since it can release harmful air pollution and pose a fire risk.
However, a 40-year-old man was recently arrested in Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom, after an investigation into an illegal dumping and burning of waste, the BBC reported.
According to the police investigation, he was accused of "keeping, treating, or disposing of controlled waste in a manner likely to cause pollution to the environment or harm to human health."
At this stage, the only things officials and residents can do is be vigilant to ensure this pollution does not happen again.
Burning waste can have detrimental effects on human and environmental health.
In explaining why many communities have banned the open burning of garbage, the Canadian government also noted that mixed waste can contain any number of materials that can release toxic chemicals into the air when burned. In the short term, this can cause symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and eye irritation.
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The long-term effects can be more serious. A 2023 study published in Sustainability noted that burning waste can release fine particulate matter that can cause or exacerbate respiratory problems, instigate skin issues, or lead to cancer.
Trash burning is also a serious environmental issue. The National Center for Atmospheric Research has known for years that the chemicals released contribute to atmospheric pollution. Beyond that, these chemicals or ash from the fire can contaminate soil or water, as the New York Department of Health outlined.
In addition to posing risks to the food supply chain, per Waste Aid, this can also harm local biodiversity. Toxic matter in ash can take even longer to break down with wide-reaching consequences.
Residents of Sherington in Buckinghamshire were outraged by the burning of the waste in their village.
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Yes — often 😬 The Sherington Parish Council appreciated the efforts of the community to bring the waste burner to justice, saying, per the BBC: "We would like to thank all the villagers who have contributed for their valuable help in bringing this matter to the attention of the appropriate authorities."
Chris Curtis, the region's Labour MP, said: "This is a despicable act of vandalism, and residents have rightfully been contacting me to complain."
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