Flytipping

Flytipping of Garden Waste

The Maryburgh Community Woodland Group have received complaints about the increase in flytipping of garden waste in the woodland, which is illegal and harmful to the delicate ecosystem. The woodland is a fragile community of various organisms that rely on the soil, which contains essential elements like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. The soil’s balance is crucial for the growth of plants and trees. They then release nutrients back into the soil when they decay, supporting new life in the woodland.

 

 

Flytipping garden waste disrupts this natural cycle by introducing excess nutrients into the soil, which can lead to the growth of non-native species and disrupt the woodland ecosystem. Garden waste can also contain pathogens that spread diseases to woodland species, and proper commercial composting is necessary to destroy these pathogens. Surveys have shown the presence of non-native plants in the woodland, some of which may have been introduced through garden waste, posing a threat to native species.

Dumping garden waste not only harms the woodland ecosystem but also affects the enjoyment of other woodland users. While some may find it inconvenient to pay for garden waste removal, there are alternative methods such as taking it to recycling centres, home composting or placing in your green bin. Proper disposal of garden waste is essential to protect the woodland environment and prevent the spread of invasive species. The SEPA website offers guidance on legal disposal methods for green waste.  https://www.sepa.org.uk/regulations/waste/flytipping/

Other useful websites with further information:

Wood Wise – secrets of the soil

RHS — Soil types

The Highland Council — Garden waste collection service