EPA regularly inspects landfills and meets with landfill operators to address odour issues in the Heatherton and Dingley area.
EPA Southern Metro manager Leigh Bryant said recent weather conditions may have contributed to an increase in odour.
“Rain reduces the effectiveness of gas extraction systems and at times this can lead to gas odour impacts such as those being reported by the community,” Mr Bryant said.
“Still conditions during the day followed by cold, still nights can also cause the gas to become trapped and accumulate close to the ground instead of dissipating into the atmosphere.”
EPA officers recently inspected the following sites and issued a number of Pollution Abatement Notices.
Clayton Regional Landfill
EPA issued a Pollution Abatement Notice (PAN) after a site inspection identified landfill gas migration and surface emissions above acceptable limits. The operator has until 3 November 2014 to complete works to address the odour issues.
“While these works may temporarily increase landfill odours in the short-term, once completed they will serve to reduce long-term odour impacts on the community,” Mr Bryant said.
“The operators are working towards eventual closure some works associated with this may lead to an increase in odour events.”
TransPacific Waste Management (TWM) Henry Street
EPA has issued a Notice requiring TransPacific Waste Management (TWM) complete remedial actions with an immediate focus on reducing odours from this site.
TWM Carroll Road
EPA has issued a Notice requiring TWM to install gas and leachate bores on site. This work is required to be completed by 1 April 2015. These works are necessary to reduce potential odour impacts on the local community.
Enviromix
EPA believes Enviromix to be the source of increased odours in the Dingley and Dingley Village area.
“EPA is exploring options to address this issue, including collaboration with co-regulator, Kingston Council,” Mr Bryant said.
Din San
EPA recently completed an inspection of the closed landfill and noted landfill gas surface emissions exceeding trigger limits in various locations, which may cause odour impacts.