Asbestos in mulch is a ‘criminal offence’
Asbestos-contaminated mulch has now been identified at multiple sites across the greater Sydney area, prompting one of the biggest investigations in the EPA’s 32-year history.
The majority of the asbestos found in mulch is “bonded” which NSW Health advises is low risk to people’s health. EPA CEO Tony Chappel has been unequivocal about the situation. “It is unacceptable to have asbestos or any other contaminant in a product that is sold either as mulch or in other sectors,” he said.
The situation began in a single location, at the newly completed Rozelle interchange, and has now affected sites such as parks, gardens, schools, supermarkets, and some private residences across multiple local government areas.
An Asbestos Taskforce has been set up by the NSW Government, to provide the EPA with additional resources to complete the investigation. The taskforce is headed by the current Chair of the NSW Asbestos Coordination Committee and EPA Board member, Carolyn Walsh, and will give more resources and support to the EPA’s ongoing investigation.
“We are scrutinising the entire supply chain and inspecting sites to deliver an outcome as soon as possible,” Tony Chappel said. “It is a criminal offence to have any asbestos in mulch and the EPA will not hesitate to take regulatory action against anyone who has impacted the product.”
Our website has the latest information about the EPA investigation into asbestos in mulch.