Devon farm breached waste limits

A Devon-based farming business has agreed to fund a local environmental project after failing to comply with waste regulations, following an investigation by the Environment Agency.

Ranjit Farming, based near Newton Abbot, was found to have exceeded permitted limits after receiving around 2,700 tonnes of shillet (a type of rock material) between November 2022 and February 2023.

While the farm had permission to reuse the material, investigators found it had breached the tonnage restrictions set out in its permit. These limits are designed to ensure waste materials are reused safely and without harming the surrounding environment.

The case was resolved through an enforcement undertaking, a legal agreement that allows organisations to avoid prosecution by funding environmental improvements and taking steps to prevent future breaches.

As part of the agreement, Ranjit Farming will pay £6,000 to Devon Wildlife Trust. The company has also introduced enhanced record-keeping systems to better monitor how much material is delivered to the site and when.

The Environment Agency said such regulations are essential to protect both communities and the natural environment.

Area Environment Manager Tim de Winton said waste rules must be followed by all businesses, warning that improper handling can pose serious risks and undermine legitimate operators.

He added that enforcement action ensures companies are held accountable while also delivering meaningful investment into environmental projects.

The case forms part of wider action taken against multiple South West firms, with a combined £28,500 being directed to environmental organisations through similar agreements.

The government has also recently announced plans to strengthen its crackdown on waste crime, with increased efforts to investigate and penalise offenders.