Everyone must take reasonable steps to make sure waste goes to the right place.

Industrial waste is any waste that comes from trade, commerce or industry. Waste generators, transporters and receivers share the responsibility of making sure waste ends up at an EPA-authorised site. That will usually mean a waste disposal site with an EPA licence, permit or registration.

Industries must take steps to make sure waste is appropriately managed by:

• identifying and classifying waste
• giving the required information to waste transporters and receivers to help them take it to the right place
• taking reasonable steps to make sure their waste ends up at an EPA-authorised site.

Example

A milk bar in Bendigo generates packaging and general waste. The owner is responsible for managing this waste appropriately and must take reasonable steps to make sure it goes to the right place. It’s also her responsibility as a business owner to check that the contractors managing the waste are authorised. She can do this by asking them directly, or by visiting the EPA website.

Householders also have an obligation under the Environment Protection Act 2017, to minimise harm to human health and the environment. This includes correctly managing and disposing of household waste. Illegal dumping can cause harm to human health and the environment. If you see waste being dumped illegally, you can report it to EPA.

Read more about reducing harm from pollution and waste

Your duty to reasonably prevent harm: what is reasonably practicable

Dealing with pollution incidents

Managing contaminated environments

Environment reference standards