The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has issued a final pollution Prevention Notice to Newcrest‘s Cadia Holdings Pty Ltd mine in Central West NSW over the control of dust and other air pollutants.
NSW EPA Chief Executive Officer Tony Chappel stated that finalising the notice is a crucial step in requiring the mine to show compliance and will inform additional measures that may be required.
“We will continue to utilise all necessary regulatory tools over the coming weeks until we are confident the mine is taking all necessary steps to meets their obligation and minimise their impact on the community,” Chappel said.
According to Chappel, Cadia is now required to provide detailed information and documentation concerning what is emitted at and from the site.
“As the mine completes additional testing of the main vent, we’ll be interrogating this data, along with findings from lead isotope testing to help ensure the community and the EPA have a clear picture,” Chappel added.
As the EPA examines potential adjustments to the mine’s Environment Protection Licence, these requirements are part of a wider set of measures to minimise emissions at and from the site.
In the following weeks, the EPA will conduct a dust monitoring program in collaboration with the community, including the implementation of a smart sensor network and possibilities for rainwater tank testing. In addition, the mine is increasing its ambient air sampling network.
“We’re planning another community drop-in session and encourage everyone to come along so we can continue to understand any concerns and discuss the monitoring programs,” Chappel said.
Chappel stated that the bottom line is that all mining operations are required by law to reduce air emissions in order to safeguard the community and the environment.
“We need to see a significant reduction in dust emissions produced at Cadia Valley Operations and we will continue to do what’s necessary to ensure residents are confident they are able to breathe clean air,” he added.
