Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has fined a Swan Hill company for breaching Section 27A of the Environment Protection Act 1970 by depositing industrial waste at a site that is not licensed to receive it.
“EPA officers inspected the vacant block in Williams Road, Swan Hill, in response to a pollution report alleging industrial waste had been deposited at the site,” said EPA’s North West Region Field Operations Team Leader Danny Childs
“The inspection revealed a large pile of metal and steel approximately 50 metres long, 25 metres wide and up to 3 metres high. A second large pile of industrial waste included wooden pallets, plastic, insulation ducting, cooling panels and other general waste. Nearby, there were seven cubic bundles of cardboard packaging and paper,” Mr Childs said.
Further investigation confirmed that the industrial waste originated from a local manufacturing operation.
“Our inspection also found evidence that some of the industrial waste had been burnt, which raises concerns about the environmental impacts this could cause,” Mr Childs said.
The infringement notice from EPA represents a fine of $7773.
“EPA has also issued a Remedial Notice, requiring Metfold Industries P/L to immediately cease accepting and burning any further industrial waste at the site, and to remove all industrial waste from the premises to a facility that is properly licensed or permitted to accept it,” he said.
“The illegal dumping of waste is a significant issue in north west Victoria and the improper management of waste will not be tolerated under any circumstances. It’s important that businesses understand their obligations when it comes to the handling, transport and disposal of their waste,” Mr Childs said.
For advice to businesses on the transport and disposal of industrial waste, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au and scroll down to find the Industrial Waste Resource Guidelines area.
Members of the public can report pollution of the environment to the 24-hour EPA pollution hotline, by calling 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC). There’s more information at www.epa.vic.gov.au/get-involved/report-pollution