Two men have been sentenced at Derby Magistrates' Court after pleading guilty to illegally dumping asbestos waste.
According to the Environment Agency, the material was deposited in woodland close to residential properties and a children's play area.
Martin Turner, a spokesman for the organisation, claimed that asbestos is so dangerous that disposing of it in this way shows a complete disregard for human health and the environment.
He said it was fortunate that the men were seen committing the offence.
"This meant that, thanks to the courage of the witnesses, this dangerous material could be safely removed and we were able to prosecute the offenders," Mr Turner added.
The defendants claimed they did not understand the full implications of their actions.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, the number of mesothelioma deaths in the UK has increased in recent years, with 2,056 Britons dying from the disease in 2006.
Written by Claire Manning
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