What is the NSW Government doing to stop the reuse of inappropriate industrial wastes as fertilisers?
The Department of Environment and Conservation NSW (DEC) has introduced a regulation which prohibits the land application of certain higher risk wastes for the purpose of growing vegetation. The identified wastes are referred to as ‘residue wastes’ and are mostly industrial by-products, for example wastes from metal and mineral sands processing. Residue wastes can contain undesirable contaminants, such as heavy metals and persistent organic compounds, and the Government wants to ensure they are not able to contaminate land, food or the environment. DEC has worked closely with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) in developing its regulatory approach. DPI regulates the sale of fertilisers, liming materials and trace element products under the Fertilisers Act 1985 to protect human health, trade and the environment. DEC’s prohibition does not cover products which are covered by the Fertilisers Act and comply with the prescribed maximum contaminant levels under that legislation. DPI
