URGENT UPDATE: A professional bin cleaning company in Melbourne has been hit with a $1,900 fine for illegally discharging waste into stormwater drains, a practice that officials say poses a serious environmental risk. The incident occurred earlier today in Docklands, where workers from Master Bin Boys, operating as The Bin Butlers, were filmed hosing “bin juice” down the gutter on Pearl River Road.
The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) swiftly responded after reviewing video evidence showing the workers using a high-pressure washer to clean a skip bin, which resulted in wastewater entering the city’s stormwater system. Stormwater drains are specifically designed to carry rainwater and any contaminants can significantly harm aquatic ecosystems.
Julia Gaitan, the EPA’s West Metropolitan Regional Manager, condemned the actions as “not acceptable.” She emphasized the importance of compliance with environmental regulations, stating, “The company has specialised trucks designed to lift and wash bins, then capture wastewater for later disposal to trade waste. Why Bin Butlers was simply washing the bins out in the street, then hosing the street down, is not clear.”
The EPA has pledged to enhance monitoring of The Bin Butlers and ensure that staff training improves to prevent future violations. “If you see this kind of activity, we’re keen to hear from you,” Gaitan urged the community. Residents are encouraged to report any pollution incidents to the EPA at 1300 372 842.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of environmental responsibilities, particularly as earlier this year, the Liverpool Council in Sydney faced criticism for ignoring its own guidelines and clogging stormwater drains with grass clippings.
As the situation develops, further actions from the EPA are anticipated. Community vigilance is key to protecting local waterways from contamination.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent environmental issue, and share this story to raise awareness about the importance of responsible waste management.
