A polluting gold mine in outback NSW has been advised it should fall into line with environmental laws or face having its operations suspended by the state’s environmental watchdog.
Tests from the Cadia gold mine, about half an hour south of the regional centre of Orange, present its principal vent is releasing an unacceptable degree of mud, the NSW Environment Protection Authority says.
The gold mine owned by Newcrest was persevering with to fall properly wanting its authorized obligations to fulfill clear air requirements, EPA chief govt officer Tony Chappel stated on Wednesday.
“We require the mine to take all necessary steps to ensure dust emissions are significantly reduced and this may include a reduction in production,” Mr Chappel stated.
“If Newcrest cannot show its subsidiary is taking immediate action to comply, the EPA will take appropriate action which could include suspension of the licence, seeking court orders or, issuing further directions.
“We know that is sturdy motion, however we is not going to draw back from doing what we should to prioritise human well being and the surroundings.”
Local farmers who formed the Cadia Community Sustainability Network previously told AAP the dust was a hazard to them and their livestock.
“The mine has continued to function regardless of a number of mud exceedances which have resulted in a number of penalties from the EPA,” a spokeswoman for the network said.
The EPA has begun testing the quality of locals’ rainwater tanks and will soon monitor the ambient air quality.
“We will proceed taking all vital steps to make sure residents are assured their well being is being protected,” Mr Chappel said.
A number of conditions have been placed on Cadia’s operating licence, including regular monitoring of the mine’s vent and monthly reports on dust discharge.
Lead dust fingerprinting research will also be required along with an analysis of dust impacts and independent health analysis and an updated air quality impact assessment.
The amount of dust created underground needs to be managed and dust suppression reports must be provided regularly to monitor their effectiveness.
AAP has contacted Newcrest for remark.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
