EPA secures enforceable undertaking following Bust the Dust operation

Warkworth Mining Ltd has entered into a legally binding Enforceable Undertaking (EU) with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

The company has agreed to strengthen its dust management efforts and pay $120,000 to a local environmental rehabilitation project, following a Hunter Valley air quality operation, Bust the Dust, undertaken by the EPA. Singleton Council’s Col Fisher Park project, will receive the funding to support stormwater restoration, weed management, and revegetation. 

EPA Executive Director of Operations, Jason Gordon, said the EU will deliver significant environmental benefits for both the local community and the mine site.

“It’s great to see this agreement, which supports a local environmental project while also ensuring Warkworth strengthens its dust management practices for the future,” Mr Gordon said.

The EU also requires mandatory dust management training for all the company’s employees.

In addition to the commitments under the EU, the company also agreed to improve its dust control strategies through better management and training.

“The EPA’s ‘Bust the Dust’ operation involved unannounced inspections and a thorough review of site operations. Warkworth responded quickly to our feedback and immediately began work on some important improvements,” Mr Gordon said.

“Since our inspection, upgrades to dust management at the site have been made, including the procurement of three new water carts, installation of a 495,000-litre water fill point, and improved surveillance technology.

“Spraying water on stockpiles and roads helps keep dust particles from becoming airborne and, with better access to water, the mine’s operators can now respond more quickly to dust events.

“A dedicated management role has also been introduced by Warkworth to improve internal dust reporting, enhance safety, and strengthen environmental practices on-site.

“Protecting air quality is a top priority for the EPA, and the Hunter Valley community rightly expects mining operations to manage dust responsibly.”

The EPA’s ‘Bust the Dust’ operation is an annual campaign during hot, dry months to ensure Hunter Valley mines are following their licence conditions and applying appropriate dust control measures.

Community members can report concerns about dust emissions to the Environment Line on 131 555 or via email at [email protected].