NSW EPA Takes Legal Action in Sydney's Asbestos-in-Mulch Scandal"

The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has initiated legal action against three companies and an individual in relation to the Sydney asbestos-in-mulch scandal. The case involves 102 alleged offences across 26 sites, including the Rozelle parklands, a major public space built above the Rozelle interchange. The issue began in January when garden mulch contaminated with asbestos was discovered in a children’s playground, prompting its closure and sparking a wider public health crisis. The contamination spread, resulting in the cancellation of a major Mardi Gras event and the

The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has initiated legal action against three companies and an individual in relation to the Sydney asbestos-in-mulch scandal. The case involves 102 alleged offences across 26 sites, including the Rozelle parklands, a major public space built above the Rozelle interchange. The issue began in January when garden mulch contaminated with asbestos was discovered in a children’s playground, prompting its closure and sparking a wider public health crisis. The contamination spread, resulting in the cancellation of a major Mardi Gras event and the closure of several parks and schools. In response, the EPA conducted its largest-ever investigation, inspecting over 300 sites and identifying 79 with asbestos-laden mulch. Prosecuted entities include VE Resource Recovery Pty Ltd, its director Arnold Vitocco, and the Greenlife Resource Recovery Facility companies: Freescale Trading Pty Ltd and Runkorp Pty Ltd. The charges, which will be heard in the Land and Environment Court, include multiple offences related to the illegal reuse of asbestos waste and breaches of environmental regulations. The first directions hearing is set for 7 February.