The Scottish Government could consider lifting restrictions on recycling centres, following moves by Westminster to take such a step.
Concerns about a rise in fly-tipping have been highlighted in the weeks following the coronavirus lockdown, which saw local recycling points across Scotland locked to the public.
On Monday the Scottish Environment Agency launched a new campaign vowing to be “uncompromising” on offenders.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was asked about the issue by Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser, who said the problem was blighting rural communities across the country.
In England a number of centres are set to open for the first time in weeks to the public.
Restrictions will still be put in place, limiting the number of cars allowed on to the site at any given time, allowing only cars with single occupants and staff being banned from helping dispose of waste.
Sepa launched its new website, giving advice on how people can manage refuse and waste as the lockdown continues.
Mr Fraser said: “This behaviour is always inexcusable, but does seem to be linked to the closure of local authority recycling centres.
“On Tuesday the UK Government said these centres can reopen with social distancing measures in place.
“Is this something the Scottish Government would consider?”
Ms Sturgeon said: “Of course, we will consider all our options. There was a public campaign started on Monday.
“We understand how unacceptable fly-tipping is at any time, but also some of the factors contributing to that.
“We will continue to consider what further action we can take.”
Raised with @NicolaSturgeon at #FMQs today the rise of flytipping and whether this is linked to the closure of local recycling & waste centres. Pleased that FM said that @scotgov would look as whether these centres could be safely reopened.
— Murdo Fraser (@murdo_fraser) April 28, 2020
Recycling and waste collection services have been disrupted across the country, to varying degrees, across Scotland’s 32 local councils.
Squashing rubbish down in bins, home composting and holding on to large items have been suggested until recycling centres open.
Anyone with coronavirus symptoms is advised to place used tissues in a disposable rubbish bag, which should be placed in another bag, tied securely, kept separate from other waste and put aside for at least 72 hours before it is put out for collection.