Sustaining our environment

If you read nothing else it is important that you read this

If you are a builder, you should:

  • Make sure that the stormwater drains on or near the building site carry clean
    rainwater only. Any other liquid or solid is considered a pollutant. No paint, sand, cement or other pollutants should be allowed to get into the stormwater drains. (Refer to Erosion and Sediment Management)
  • Install sediment and erosion control devices on your site and check them daily.
  • Sweep up and collect any material from the road, gutter or footpath area every day.
  • Do not hose anything into the stormwater drains.
  • Try to reduce the amount of waste for disposal by separating your different wastes and reusing and recycling where possible. (Refer to Waste Management)
  • Reduce windblown dust by covering stockpiles and materials. When excavating, keep the surface moist to reduce dust. (Refer to Air Quality Management)
  • Make sure that paint and other chemicals do not soak into the ground or get  into stormwater drains.
  • Use trigger-action hoses to reduce water wastage.
  • Make sure that the contractors and workers on your site know about your
    commitment to protecting and caring for the environment.
  • Be aware that most pollution offences carry penalities up to $1 million (plus a daily penalty up to $120,000 for continuing offences) for companies, or $250,000 (plus a daily penalty up to $60,000 for continuing offences) for individuals. (See Environmental Legislation)
  • Be aware that even very minor breaches of environmental laws can result in on-the-spot fines of $1500 for companies and $750 for individuals.
Page last updated: 25 September 2012