In response to ongoing concerns about odours, new regulations have been announced to ensure that composting facilities near residential areas, particularly around Swanbank and New Chum, implement stricter measures to lessen their impact on the environment.
Required New Methods
As of August 2024, changes have been implemented to address the ongoing odour issues in Swanbank and New Chum, significantly affecting the quality of life for many Ipswich residents.
Following widespread community and local government support, regulations have been introduced requiring that all new and expanding compost facilities within four kilometres of residential areas, which handle odorous waste, adopt in-vessel or enclosed processing methods. These methods are recognised for effectively reducing nuisance odours.
Community and Environmental Impact
These changes come after numerous reports from residents about the adverse effects of odour from the composting sites at Swanbank and New Chum.
“The new regulations will ensure that only those facilities that meet stringent environmental standards receive odorous waste, thus protecting our communities,” stated Charis Mullen (M for Jordan). More than 93% of community feedback supported these stronger regulations during the recent consultation phase.
The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) has been actively investigating these complaints, noting that odour issues are especially prevalent during warmer months when rainfall and temperatures rise.
“The legislative changes also give the environmental regulator more authority to update the conditions for existing composting facilities on a case-by-case basis and ensure that transporters are compliant with these new standards,” added Mullen.
The DESI expressed gratitude to the community for their ongoing efforts in reporting odour issues and participating in the consultation process, highlighting how critical public input has been to shaping these regulatory changes. With the implementation of these regulations, there is a concerted effort to significantly reduce the impact of these facilities on nearby residents.
Community Skepticism Amid Regulatory Changes
Despite the introduction of new regulations to tackle odour issues, some Ipswich residents remain skeptical. Having dealt with unpleasant smells for years, they question the timing and sincerity of these changes, noting they often coincide with upcoming elections. Jim Dodrill, spokesperson for the Ipswich Residents Against Toxic Environments (IRATE), expressed concerns about the consistency in following through on its promises.
The relationship between the residents and local authorities has been strained, particularly after plans were revealed in 2019 to approve a new waste dump in Swanbank despite numerous complaints. The dissatisfaction contributed to significant shifts in the area, with changes in local and state seats influenced by public unrest over waste management practices.
With inspections up by 40 percent since last year and tripling enforcement notices, there is a clear intent to enforce these regulations strictly. However, residents like Dodrill remain cautious, labeling the compliance officers as overly business-friendly.
Published 8-Aug-2024
