Released 24/08/2018
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has issued an Environment Protection Order to GRI Pty Ltd following pollutants from their scrap metal and recycling plant entering the Molonglo River Catchment through water runoff.
The Molonglo River Catchment (between the Queanbeyan River and Fyshwick), is highly valued for its conservation of aquatic habitats and migratory routes.
The pollutants which entered the catchment included Aluminium, Lead, Molybdenum and Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons.
Narelle Sargent, (the EPA), said the pollution occurred while a fire at the GRI premises in Oaks Estate was being extinguished using a large volume of water.
“Water sampling, after the fire, showed evidence of high levels of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon - a direct result of contaminants not being drained from vehicles on the site and entering the soil,” Mrs Sargent said.
“These were then picked up through the water runoff and entered the catchment.
“While the levels were above the environmental standards, thankfully in this circumstance, it hasn’t posed a long term environmental impact. However frustratingly, this pollution could have been avoided if work practices were in place to ensure the fuels and oils in the vehicles were removed prior to the vehicles being recycled.
“The Environment Protection Order we have put in place will ensure this is improved in the future and requires GRI to:
- install controls on the site to capture any run off from the site before it enters a waterway
- ensure all motor vehicles are decanted of all fluids and oils prior to dismantling and/or processing
- ensure that all white goods (refrigeration) and vehicles (air conditioning) containing ozone depleting gases
are appropriately treated prior to processing by a suitably licensed person.
“The EPA will continue to inspect the site to ensure the Environment Protection Order is being implemented.”
Mrs Sargent said this incident is a reminder to all auto wreckers and dismantlers of their responsibility to protect the environment by draining oil, coolant and air conditioner gases from all vehicles and parts before any dismantling takes place.
“More tips on preventing pollution can be found in the ‘Auto Dismantlers’ information sheet available on the Access Canberra website or by calling the EPA on 13 22 81.
“Businesses, government and the general community all have a part to play in minimising pollution and keeping our environment clean and healthy,” Mrs Sargent concluded.
- Statement ends -
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