EPA fines skip bin owner

By Jessica Micallef

A Kyneton woman has been fined almost $2000 for dumping a large amount of industrial waste at a Kyneton property.

In August, Environment Protection Authority (EPA) officers attended a farm property to investigate a report of dumping.

EPA north west regional manager Scott Pigdon said officers found a large quantity of industrial waste including timber, cement sheeting, metal, wire, plastics and general household waste.

“Investigations confirmed the waste was dumped by a woman operating a skip bin business,” he said.

“Industrial waste can contain chemicals and metals which can lead into the ground which is why it’s so important to take it to an appropriately licensed site.

“Anyone operating a skip bin business should be well aware of the environmental regulations for the industry and should have systems, processes and controls in place to dispose of material in the correct manner.”

The woman was also ordered to clean up the waste.

“As well as the $1983 fine, the woman has been left with a clean-up bill,” Mr Pigdon said. “Everyone has a role to play in protecting the environment. Community reports are vital to EPA’s ability to prevent harm from waste and hold polluters to account.”

Report pollution to EPA’s 24-hour hotline 1300 372 842.