Charge:

1. Did cause an environmental hazard at Coolaroo on 4 February 2020, contrary to s.66B.

Environment Protection Authority Victoria’s (EPA) campaign to improve businesses’ management of their fire risks continues with a Coolaroo recycling company fined $10,000 and its director $2,500 in the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court.

Phoenix Environmental Pty Ltd operates a waste and resource recovery facility in Maffra St, Coolaroo. Phoenix director Ashley Walker was also charged.

EPA inspections found stockpiles of Combustible Recyclable and Waste Materials (CRWM) that were too large, stacked too close to buildings and stacked too close together in breach of Waste Management Policy regulations.

The separation distances are mandated for the purposes of allowing access to fire fighting vehicles in the event of a fire.

“Phoenix contravened rules or requirements that minimise fire risks and increase firefighting capabilities if there is a fire,” said Acting EPA CEO Suzy Neilan.

“Phoenix had not taken all reasonable steps to minimise the risks of harm to human health and the environment from possible fire. EPA has actively and frequently engaged with the waste and recycling industry to highlight the need for good fire risk management.

“The company did not take sufficient action on those warnings and has paid a heavy price in court. It’s a message that EPA and the community will not tolerate inaction over the protection of the environment and the community.”