Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has fined a Coolaroo company $8,060 after it allowed cardboard to spread outside its boundary fence and along the banks of the Merlynston Creek.
EPA Officers investigated and found that the cardboard had been deposited along the creek banks around 16 May 2019 at the premises of Abbe Corrugated Pty Ltd of Maffra St, Coolaroo.
EPA officers found cardboard along the Merlynston Creek easement
The cardboard is deemed to be Industrial Waste under EPA’s regulations and the company should have managed its disposal in a way that was compliant with the Environment Protection Act 1970.
“Our creeks and waterways in the north and west of the City are under enough pressure without allowing items like this to be released as well,” said EPA Regional Manager Dan Hunt, Metro Region.
“Abbe Corrugated should have controlled the disposal of this cardboard, and as they clearly haven’t, a fine is appropriate. EPA officers will also monitor to make sure there is no repeat,” he said.
Following EPA’s attendance, the company reported to EPA that they took actions to prevent further impact and cleaned up the cardboard waste.
Mr Hunt pointed out that EPA was already on the front foot to stop harm from pollution and waste. Under new laws coming into force in July 2020, all Victorian businesses must be aware of a new General Environmental Duty or face enforcement action under new laws from EPA.
“The Duty will put the onus onto businesses and require people who conduct activities that pose a risk to human health and the environment from pollution and waste to take reasonable steps to eliminate or reduce those risks.”
Learn more about Victoria’s new environment laws at epa.vic.gov.au/newlaws
Under the Environment Protection Act 1970 and the Infringements Act 2008, Abbe Corrugated Pty Ltd has the right to have the fine reviewed or have the matter determined by a court