The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) today praised the groundswell of response from members of the public wanting to help with clean-up efforts in London and elsewhere after last night’s riots – and to the local authority crews and contractors who have responded immediately and effectively.

Welcoming the campaign on Twitter and Facebook, CIWM Chief Executive Steve Lee said:  “It is wonderful that so many people want to do something positive – and hats-off to the ‘riotcleanup’ tweeters for providing a focal point for those who care about their local communities and environment.  It is equally pleasing that local authorities and their contractors have sprung into action yet again – and that their efforts have been recognised and praised by the public.”

“We would urge some caution, however. These clean-up operations need to be properly co-ordinated and safety is a real issue here, with potentially dangerous wreckage, broken glass and metal items – and some areas are still crime scenes. The best thing that volunteers can do is to contact their council and find out if, how, and where their help is needed.”