The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has fined SUEZ Recycling and Recovery Pty Ltd $15,000 for allegedly storing waste in an unsafe location posing a fire and pollution risk.
The Suez recycling facility at Spring Farm was storing large quantities of processed glass waste and baled paper waste outside, in alleged breach of their licence conditions.
Officers from the EPA observed the waste stored outside the recycling facility building during a routine inspection in February this year.
EPA Director Major Compliance and Investigations Greg Sheehy said the $15,000 fine reflects the seriousness of breaching an environment protection licence.
“The storage of baled paper outside the facility building creates a significant risk of fire, wind-blown litter and water pollution,” Mr Sheehy said.
“Paper is combustible and has the potential to ignite and burn, with a serious risk of fire igniting from sparks created by machinery.
“Outside storage also poses a water pollution risk from rainwater running off bales and flowing into stormwater drains.
“Odours can also be generated from waste stored outside, which could potentially impact neighbouring residents.”
Mr Sheehy said the facility, located in Barrow Road, had been advised not to store materials outside on several prior occasions.
“If licensees fail to comply with their licence conditions, the EPA will take strong action,” he said.
The EPA is continuing to monitor the clean-up and removal of the waste material.
Penalty notices are one of a number of tools the EPA can use to achieve environmental compliance, including formal warnings, official cautions, licence conditions, notices and directions and prosecutions.
