The Environment Agency has accepted an Enforcement Undertaking from a Worcestershire-based fresh mushroom supplier who broke packaging regulations.

Walsh Mushrooms Group of Vale Park, Evesham, is now working within the rules and has made a payment of £54,880.3 to the Marine Conservation Society to make amends for the failures. The company, based in Co Wexford in the Republic of Ireland, admitted they had not registered under packaging regulations between 2007-2017 and failed to implement proper recycling practices.

Officers from the Environment Agency estimated that the company handled nearly 9,000 tonnes of packaging during that period.

The legislation is designed to ensure companies take a responsible approach to packaging materials.

Beth Haste, a regulatory officer for the Environment Agency, said:

“Enforcement Undertakings are an effective enforcement tool used by the Environment Agency to enable businesses to address breaches of environmental legislation and contribute to environmental projects.

“We are increasingly using this method of enforcement for suitable cases to bring businesses into compliance with environmental legislation and requirements, and to protect the environment. However, we will prosecute or impose monetary penalties in appropriate cases.”

Jenny Griffiths, Education Manager for the Marine Conservation Society, said:

“The enforcement undertaking from Walsh Mushrooms is being used to research, design and create new education materials to inspire action and ocean friendly behaviours from consumers and businesses throughout England.”

To report any environmental issues to the Environment Agency’s 24 hour incident hotline, call 0800 80 70 60.