recycling, composting, incineration with energy recovery, land creation, and special disposal for some items -- the Department of Works and Engineering wants to see stricter legislation.

In a February, 1992, report, laws governing the following areas were identified for change: Littering and illegal dumping.

Import controls on certain packaging and materials.

Waste separation.

Control of backyard burning.

Special waste disposal.

Whether the increasing cost of waste management will be levied on taxpayers or on waste offenders has not yet been decided.

But Ms Jane Brett, Government Waste Education and Enforcement Officer, explained that under the Waste and Litter Control Act 1987, Government could prosecute those caught dumping on land, if it could be seen from a public place.

Litterers can sometimes be traced through clues in the garbage itself, after which the department sends a personal letter to the offender(s). This often serves as a cure as people become embarrassed and unnerved at being found out, said Ms Brett.

Persistent offenders were pursued with warnings, although prosecution was still difficult, she explained.

Ms Brett said her department would like to see tougher measures introduced which would allow traffic wardens, park rangers and Police to give on-the-spot "litter tickets''.

And if littering occurred from a car, the car-owner would be directly responsible, she suggested.

Permanent Secretary to the Environment Dr. James Burnett-Herkes said his department took a "watchdog'' and advisory role.

The Water Authority had the power to force water polluters to clean up their act and pay to clean up their mess.

Chairman Mr. Donald Lines warned polluters that the Authority could take legal action against companies responsible for oil leaks that polluted the water lens, caves and inshore waters.

"If you fail to take the required action, the Minister of Works and Engineering may undertake the work and recover the cost from you,'' Mr. Lines warned.