A woman in Kew, London, was surprised to receive a fine for disposing of leftover coffee into a drain, deeming the penalty as unjust. Burcu Yesilyurt poured out a small amount of coffee before boarding a bus in west London, only to be confronted by three enforcement officers. She believed she was acting responsibly by discarding it in the grid but was fined under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Expressing her discontent, she remarked, “It feels quite unfair. I think the fine is extreme. It’s not proportionate.” Yesilyurt explained that she poured out the coffee near Richmond station upon seeing the bus approaching, as she wanted to avoid spilling it inside the vehicle.
The incident, which occurred on October 10, left Yesilyurt bewildered as she claimed she had no awareness of any wrongdoing at the time. Despite her inquiries, she received no clarification from the officers about the regulations regarding pouring waste liquids into drains.
Under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, it is an offense to dispose of waste that could pollute, including pouring liquids into drains—a law that many are unfamiliar with. Yesilyurt was fined £150, with the option to reduce it to £100 if paid within 14 days. She criticized the officers for their intimidating demeanor, leaving her feeling unsettled. When she questioned what to do with the coffee residue, she was instructed to dispose of it in a bin.
Richmond-upon-Thames Council defended the fine, stating that the officers acted professionally and impartially. They clarified that the officers’ behavior was reviewed through body-worn camera footage and was deemed appropriate. The council emphasized its commitment to safeguarding waterways and maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the borough’s streets.
The Mirror reached out to Richmond Council for a response on the matter.