Revealed: The toxic chemicals detected at illegal waste sites
Raphael Afesomu22nd July, 2026 | News
Toxic Chemicals Detected at Major Illegal Waste Sites Across the UK, Investigation Finds
A six-month investigation by Sky News, in collaboration with scientists from Oxford Indices, has uncovered a dangerous mix of hundreds of toxic chemicals at three of the UK’s largest illegal waste sites, raising fresh concerns about potential risks to public health and the environment.
The investigation involved extensive testing of air, water, and soil at waste dumps located in Gloucester, Wigan, and Ranskill near Doncaster.
One of the most alarming findings came from Over Farm in Gloucester, where more than 100,000 tonnes of waste have remained for over seven years. Air quality tests detected nearly four times as many chemicals as those typically emitted from an average car exhaust.
Scientists identified chemical compounds associated with the burning or heating of fuels and oils, plastics, tyres, paints, resins, solvents, food waste, fragranced products, and chlorinated materials. Experts warned that prolonged exposure to some of these substances could pose serious health risks to nearby communities.
Following the findings, the Environment Agency said it is carefully reviewing the results of the investigation and assessing the potential implications.
The report has intensified concerns over the growing problem of illegal waste dumping across the UK, with environmental experts calling for stronger enforcement, faster clean-up efforts, and tougher penalties for offenders.
The investigation highlights the potential environmental and public health consequences of poorly managed waste sites and underscores the need for urgent action to prevent further contamination.
