The woman explained that she poured out some of the drink because she was afraid of spilling it on the bus and did not know that what she did was illegal. She said three inspectors immediately ran after her and gave her a fine under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, which prohibits disposing of waste in a manner that could pollute land or water.
She called the event a “real shock” and said inspectors had not answered her questions. However, a Richmond Council spokesman said footage from inspectors' body cameras showed inspectors acted appropriately.
Yesilut stated that she was trying not to litter, but considered the fine too large, so she decided to sue.
After considering the appeal, the council decided to overturn the fine, noting that the violation was “minor.” The woman called for making the law more clear by installing signs at trash cans and bus stops.
