COAL ASH REMEDIATION INQUIRY CALLS FOR CLEAN-UP TASKFORCE AND BETTER REGULATION

A parliamentary inquiry into the remediation of coal ash has put the NSW Environment Protection Authority under pressure to better regulate the power station by-product and investigate coal ash dams’ impact on people’s health.

Six of the 16 recommendations urged the EPA to more closely monitor air and groundwater pollution from ash dams and to commission a comprehensive, independent assessment of the their environmental impact.

The final report of the inquiry released this week, also highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of using the 200-million tonnes of coal ash stored in NSW in the construction industry, recommending the state government mandate the use of coal ash recycling in infrastructure projects.

It suggested government agencies partner with industry leaders to undertake feasibility studies and pilot projects on the viability of new coal ash industries and products.

The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment led taskforce would also develop a strategy to achieve at least 80 per cent reuse of coal ash produced in New South Wales.

The Hunter Jobs Alliance has welcomed the report, saying it’s a win-win job creation opportunity.

“As local advocates have noted for some time, there are important win-win outcomes to be had from reuse of coal ash. With the right government policies and incentives, there are genuine opportunities for creating new jobs at the same time as dealing with one of the state’s largest pollution risks,” said Hunter Jobs Alliance Coordinator Warrick Jordan.

“Given the Hunter is home to most of the state’s coal ash, the region should be first in line in the exploration and development of new projects.”
The Public Works Committee also found the decision to close Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre in 2019, due to fears about nearby Eraring ash dam, was made with no transparency and inadequate community consultation.

The full report can be found here.