Guidelines offer better disposal options for SA

In January 2007, the South Australian EPA released the Guidelines ‘Environmental Management of Landfill Guidelines (municipal solid waste and commercial and industrial wastes)’. Since being introduced, the guidelines have had a significant impact on landfills in South Australia, leading to improved environmental practices.

EPA deputy chief executive Tony Circelli said the guidelines were developed to provide the waste industry with assistance on site selection, development, design, construction, operation and closure of municipal solid waste and commercial and industrial waste landfill facilities.

“The guidelines outline a number of compliance dates for the closure as well as operation which all licence holders are required to meet," Circelli said.

“Although a challenge to meet, particularly in regional areas, the guidelines are now widely accepted as good practice by the waste industry.”

The guidelines state that all operational landfills must comply with the requirements as set out in the document by 1 July 2010. To date, of the 182 operational landfills:

• 49 closed prior to 1 July 2008;
• 93 are intending to close between 1 July 2008 and 1 July 2010;
• 40 are intending to remain operation post 1 July 2010.

Circelli said this progress could not have been achieved without the collaborative approach between local governments, the Local Government Association and the EPA.

“While some regional areas expressed their concerns regarding the financial costs of implementing the guidelines, the achievements made have been significant and will ultimately help SA become more sustainable, and limit future liabilities for landfill operators," said Circelli.

“The EPA will continue to work with local governments and landfill operators to finalise outstanding closure plans, provide ongoing support during closure and post-closure works on sites as well as for the implementation of local and regional waste management strategies.

“Local government and landfill operators must be complimented for their great effort in complying with the guidelines and making significant environmental progress which demonstrates responsible management of waste.”