A scrap metal recycling site in Sydney’s western suburbs has been fined $30,000 for unlawfully operating a waste facility without a licence or appropriate environmental controls.
A NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) investigation confirmed Sunrise Metal Recycling was accepting old cars and other waste materials, then separating and sorting them – which meets the legal definition of a waste facility in NSW.
NSW EPA Director Field Operations David Gathercole said Sunrise Metal Recycling was advised of its obligations in 2022 but chose to continue operating without approval.
“The premises clearly meets the definition of a waste facility – and there’s a reason that approvals and an Environment Protection Licence is required for these activities,” Mr Gathercole said.
“Waste materials such as scrap metal, e-waste, lead-acid batteries and waste tyres can pose risks to the environment and the community when not stored or managed properly, including risks of fire.
“While no major pollution incidents have occurred at the facility, these risks can’t be ignored.
“Our officers found the environmental controls at the site were lacking, particularly its stormwater management protocols, and staff knowledge of environmental risks was low.
“Further, the business had gained financially from the non-compliance by failing to pay their licence fee and avoiding implementing measures required to protect the environment.
The EPA worked closely with Penrith City Council and NSW Police to investigate the site.
Scrap metal businesses are permitted to operate without an Environment Protection Licence if they process less than 1,000 tonnes of waste, but they require development consent.
If you become aware of an unlawful waste facility, you can make a report to the NSW Environment Line by emailing [email protected].
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