71. Dirty business - is waste crime on the rise?

A vast illegal waste dump in Oxfordshire, stretching 150 metres and sinking two storeys deep, has sent shockwaves through the waste industry. It’s a stark reminder of one of the sector’s most persistent challenges: organised waste crime. How could a site of this scale emerge unnoticed and unchallenged? Why did it take the Environment Agency more than three months to formally shut it down? With incidents of large-scale fly-tipping on the rise, what does this mean for the future of waste management? Join us as we explore the growing shadow economy of waste crime and discuss the forces driving it. Plus, are postage stamps (and their books) rubbish or not, would we really recommend plastic over paper, and why is James fighting with an AI chatbot?Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.We would love you to join our community on DiscordSpecial thanks to our sponsor, EcosuretyTo get exclusive videos and clips, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, X, Threads or Facebook; @rubbishpodcast or YouTube: @talkingrubbishpodcastOr you can contact James and Robbie with questions or just general rubbish musings using the email address [email protected] or by texting them via WhatsApp on 07356 069 232Relevant links and reports mentioned in the programme can be found on the Talking Rubbish Linktr.eeTranscripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish websiteTimestamps:Is waste crime on the rise? - 02:21Additions and corrections - 27:55Rubbish or Not: postage stamps - 36:08Rubbish News - 39:31Are we really recommending plastic over paper? - 46:31Residual Rubbish - 54:40 Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL