|
|
Pollution probe
to clear the air
Interested members of the public are being called on to submit comments on proposed changes to environmental regulation that aimed to improve the way pollution incidents in NSW were reported on and managed.
Acting Chief Environmental Regulator, Gary Whytcross said the proposed changes would see industries in NSW required to clearly identify who should be notified and when, in the event of a pollution incident at their premises.
“The proposed changes put an onus on any industry in NSW who holds an Environment Protection Licence to prepare, implement and test pollution incident management plans,” Mr Whytcross said.
| Environmental laws to change |
“These plans will need to include proposed actions to be taken to protect communities and the environment from a pollution incident and clearly specify the procedures to inform local communities and relevant authorities.”
He said the reforms were about ensuring that serious pollution incidents were avoided to every extent possible, but also that if they did occur they could be handled quickly and effectively.
“It is also about ensuring that industry understands that they have a responsibility to communicate with their neighbours and the relevant authorities immediately after an incident occurs,” he said.
“The changes will require industry to regularly assess, review and test their plans and make any necessary changes to ensure that their plans are working as effectively as possible.”
The closing date for written submissions is Wednesday 8 February 2012 and the EPA will be holding two public information sessions on the new requirements in Sydney and Newcastle.
More information is available from this PS News link.
Edition 255, 25 January 2012
|
|
