EPA today (30 Aug) issued SBI with a notice of intent to suspend its operating licence and requested the operator explain why they should be allowed to continue operations in light of significant odour issues and compliance concerns. 

Locals were informed of the action at a community meeting in Cranbourne West this evening. EPA was on hand to share odour data, explain the process and answer their questions.

SBI has the opportunity to respond to EPA’s notice by 13 September 2022. The action follows a recent prohibition notice which stopped SBI accepting any new waste. Existing information on Friday (26 Aug) allowed EPA to lift that notice but since then, new data demanded an escalation in regulatory action.

This process can lead to a suspension of licence, one of EPA’s strongest regulatory tools when it comes to ensuring compliance and protection. 

While this action does not mean the odour will be immediately stopped, it does mean that EPA is continuing to use all available options to resolve this issue. 

In other actions, EPA has also told SBI that by 30 September 2022, it must review and update their Risk  Management and Monitoring Program (RMMP) to demonstrate compliance with the General Environmental Duty and have the updated RMMP reviewed by an EPA appointed auditor.

SBI must also complete an audit of the landfill operations and ensure compliance with the updated RMMP by 30 November 2022.

For more information go to the EPA website at www.epa.vic.gov.au.