Wolverhampton to Deploy Drone in Fight Against Fly-Tipping

A drone will be introduced in Wolverhampton to assist in efforts to combat fly-tipping. Its functions will include identifying problem areas, ensuring waste firms comply with regulations, and scanning locations prone to illegal dumping, subsequently supporting any legal actions. Earlier this year, the City of Wolverhampton Council commenced the use of new CCTV cameras featuring artificial intelligence (AI). These cameras are capable of recognizing when fly-tipping occurs and immediately reporting it to the authority. Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, the cabinet member for resident services, commented that the drone is a valuable instrument for addressing this crime, which he characterized as “thoughtless, unpleasant and unhygienic.” The council was one of 26 authorities that received a share of £1 million from the government earlier this year, designated for tackling fly-tipping. The authority reported that three environmental crime officers have since completed training and been authorized as drone pilots, a process funded by a £49,000 grant. Evidence collected by the drone and the cameras will bolster the council’s ongoing “Shop a Tipper” campaign, which urges the public to identify those responsible. As part of this campaign, images of anyone suspected of illegally disposing of waste will be shared to appeal for information that could help identify them. If the information provided leads to a successful identification, and fines are issued and paid or a prosecution proceeds, residents will receive a £100 gift card. Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.