Industrial precincts and businesses in Melbourne’s north will be visited by Environment Protection Authority officers in the coming weeks as part of a statewide pollution prevention inspection program.
EPA north metro region manager Chloe Bernett said the inspections work to prevent the harmful impacts of pollution and waste on local waterways.
“Stormwater drains to local waterways such as creeks and rivers via our stormwater system, so businesses must know their responsibilities under Victoria’s environment protection laws to prevent pollution,” she said.
“Following recent storm and flood events statewide, it’s more important than ever that businesses are aware of how their actions can directly impact the environment and public health and why preventing this is so key.
“Ensuring the health of the waterways that stormwater drains feed into is also important for Traditional Owners and their cultural responsibility to care for Country and also as amenity for our communities. Our waterways must be protected by everyone, including industry.”
EPA officers will begin inspections in Thomastown this week, with all industry sectors targeted, Ms Bernett said.
“That includes concrete batching plants, agricultural chemical distributors, motor vehicle and machinery servicing/repairs, chemical handling and a variety of other general industrial activities,” she said.
“Chemical storage in particular will be scrutinised and sites must have appropriate controls in place. We have seen too often the harm that can be done to the environment through
the uncontrolled escape of chemicals into our stormwater drains.”
