NSW EPA Launches Historic Prosecution in Asbestos-Mulch Scandal
The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has initiated legal action against three companies and an individual in a case that has captured public and environmental attention. Following the discovery of asbestos-contaminated mulch at Rozelle Parklands earlier this year, a far-reaching investigation revealed contamination at 79 sites across the state. These findings have set the stage for one of the largest prosecutions in the EPA's history.
At the center of the case is Arnold Vitocco, director of VE Resource Recovery Pty Ltd, whose company, alongside two entities trading as Greenlife Resource Recovery Facility, faces 102 charges. These include breaches of environmental protection licenses, violations of mulch orders, and the reuse of asbestos waste. The charges stem from contamination linked to 26 of the identified sites, with much of the affected mulch traced back to the Greenlife site in Bringelly, southwest Sydney.
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The scandal first came to light in January when bonded asbestos—a less harmful form but still dangerous if disturbed—was found in mulch at Rozelle Parklands. This prompted closures of parks, schools, and playgrounds across Sydney and led to the cancellation of significant public events. Despite the minimal immediate health risk due to the bonded nature of the asbestos, the potential long-term impacts and public outrage demanded swift action.
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe emphasized the urgency of reform, advocating for stricter laws and increased penalties for environmental violations. Her government has since doubled fines for asbestos-related offenses, raising them to $4 million for corporations and $1 million for individuals.
While Greenlife Resource Recovery Facility denies the allegations, citing stringent protocols and external factors like supply chain complexity as potential causes for contamination, the EPA has stood firm on its findings. The case highlights the challenges of waste management in modern urban settings and the critical need for accountability.
The first court hearing is set for February 7, 2025, at the Land and Environment Court. With public and government eyes closely watching, this case could reshape environmental regulations in New South Wales and set a precedent for addressing large-scale contamination crises.
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