Artificial intelligence helps council catch illegal fly-tipping on Tottenham estate

The motion-sensitive cameras can identify when an item is thrown from a window

New AI-enhanced technology is being introduced in Haringey to tackle fly-tipping on estates.

The technology helps detect when rubbish is thrown out of windows in tower blocks and is now being used by Haringey Council at Broadwater Farm Estate, with plans for more to follow.

The motion-sensitive cameras can distinguish between different kinds of movement, avoiding false triggers from birds flying while being sensitive enough to detect even a tissue thrown out of a window.

Since being installed for the first time in November, the council says the cameras have captured eleven incidents of aerial fly-tipping, resulting in the council issuing three fines of £1,000 each to the perpetrators.

Sarah Williams, cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “Our residents deserve safe and clean estates. Littering from windows not only creates a serious nuisance but can also be extremely dangerous for others passing by.

“This new technology is helping combat fly-tipping and enables us to pin-point perpetrators and ensure those who commit these offences face consequences.

“This innovative approach showcases our commitment to maintaining a clean, green and safe environment for our residents, utilising advanced technology to tackle and prevent anti-social behaviour.”

The council says it evaluated various solutions to address this issue, with the technology developed and used in Singapore proving to be highly effective. It adds that the cameras “respect privacy” as they do not point directly into people’s homes.

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