Environment secretary, Andrea Leadsom, has suggested those caught fly-tipping could be made to help councils litter-pick as punishment.
Consultation proposing the measure was launched on Monday (April 10) as part of a government plan to crackdown on rubbish.
Mrs Leadsom said: "The government now wants to see more of those committing crimes like this taking responsibility for cleaning up the community by picking up litter and illegally dumped waste themselves."
So could using litter-picking as punishment work in Ealing, which has seen such a sharp rise in fly-tipping?
Latest fly-tipping news
Reports of fly-tipping between June and August last year rose by a jaw-dropping 216%, compared to the same time the year before.
It came after the introduction of a new system of wheelie bins on June 6 that year.
In February Hanwell resident, June Burnett, claimed the problem was so bad it had left the borough the "filthiest it had been in 35 years".
However, Ealing Council said in February complaints were down 46% since August last year.
Here's what you said about making people litter-pick as punishment for fly-tipping:
Liz McGowan, Uxbridge Road resident
"Yes absolutely (it should be introduced), but only for real fly-tippers not someone who's simply putting their rubbish out.
"Overall fly-tipping does need to be sorted.
"What they (the council) should do is take them out on their trips when they have to clean and get them to help pick it up.
"I think it would make them (culprits) see the consequences."
Jags Sanghera, Norwood Green resident
"I think it is pretty simple, it is something which should be looked at.
"I think it should be an option, even if it is a first time offence. It is a problem across the borough, it is across the country.
"It is worth giving the idea a go."
Asked if the proposal would deter offenders, Mr Sanghera said: "For some people yes, for some people no."
Cllr Greg Stafford, leader of Ealing Conservatives
"I'm all in favour of things that put back into the community.
"I would not want to see a fine disappear.
"If they are persistent fly-tippers who are just making a mockery of the system they need to face far greater punishment.
"I think it will have a positive effect. These companies and individuals who are doing this are doing it because they feel they can get away with it."
Liberal Democrat Cllr Gary Malcolm
"If we're talking throwing rubbish on the floor I would be in favour of that.
"You need to learn a lesson yourself.
"I think they would realise what a stupid act it is."
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