News briefs
- New requirements for operation of landfills
- Companies respond well to new reporting requirements
- EPA support for water and energy use reductions
New requirements for operation of landfills
Following public consultation EPA’s revised Best Practice Environmental Management – Siting, Design, Operation and Rehabilitation of Landfills (Landfill BPEM) has been released.
The publication sets out environmental standards for landfills in Victoria and is used by EPA, industry and others in relation to landfill works approval applications and compliance activity.
The publication addresses recommendations made by the Victorian Ombudsman in his report Brookland Greens Estate – Investigation into Methane Gas Leaks, by revising buffer requirements and setting new standards for landfill gas management.
The Landfill BPEM also features information on new technologies, particularly in landfill lining and landfill gas control; improved management practices at landfills; improved rehabilitation and aftercare practices; and community engagement.
EPA director Stuart McConnell said the Landfill BPEM had been revised to provide clear standards for operators, industry, local government and community.
“The technical feedback EPA received from industry groups, consultants, local government and community members has been a key part of the revision process,” he said.
“In addition, the document will be maintained as a live document to keep abreast with international best practice, new technology and improved management techniques.”
Companies respond well to new reporting requirements
Chief executive officers have taken their environmental responsibilities seriously, with more than 90 per cent of licence holders submitting their annual performance statement (APS) on time.
As part of EPA’s improved licensing system, companies or individuals with reformed licences had to report their performance against each licence condition for the past financial year and submit it by the end of October.
EPA’s John Merritt said the new reporting system was a key component of the licensing reform program and had thus far shown to be a resounding success.
“It looks like they’ve done a good job of stepping up to meet the new requirements. This is a significant achievement given the changes in the licensing system and the reporting requirements.
“Ten per cent of those required to submit their statement, haven’t done so and they’ve been required to explain themselves. If they fail to provide either the statement or a valid reason for not submitting it there’s every possibility they will be fined.”
Mr Merritt said the new system, which requires a company’s CEO to sign off on the statement, meant greater buy-in from them regarding their company’s environmental performance.
The system works on a similar basis to that of a tax return, with APS submissions subject to random and targeted audits. EPA will also adopt a risk-based approach with poor performers who will be subject to greater scrutiny from the environmental regulator.
Industry need to state compliance or non-compliance with their licence conditions and submit, depending on their licensed activities, additional information for things like air and water discharges.
Mr Merritt said he hoped the trend for complying with the environmental rules would continue as the remaining 25 per cent of EPA’s 600 licences are reformed.
More information on Licence reform
EPA support for water and energy use reductions
EPA’s Water and Energy $avings Program supports investigations or feasibility studies that focus on reducing the use of potable water and energy in industrial processes. Financial support is available for projects upon EPA approval, via an application process.
The projects carried out through the Water and Energy $avings Program are tailored to industry needs to achieve the best possible savings. Generally, projects are completed by consultants with industry specific and resource efficiency expertise and managed by the Water and Energy $avings team.
The business opportunities presented through projects will assist companies achieve environmental benefits and direct cost savings in a short time frame.
For more information visit water energy or to discuss your project idea and request an application form contact the Water and Energy $avings team.
Phone (03) 9695 2669 Email waterandenergy@epa.vic.gov.au