The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) recently fined BHP Billiton $15 thousand dollars for exceeding the air pollution guidelines at their Mount Arthur coalmine and while Muswellbrook mayor Martin Rush says it's the right idea, it's not enough.
Its not the first time the EPA have fined BHP over air pollution from the mine with incidents occurring in 2012, 2013 and 2014.
The latest fine occurred after a witness reported of excess dust blowing across a road near Muswellbrook.
All mines must comply with rules and regulations to limit and control dust generation at all times but Mr Rush says BHP is simply ignoring these rules.
"They have (BHP) continually ignored the regulations for dust pollution and it's simply not good enough", he said.
"The air shed is already at capacity in the area and residents would suffer if the Mount Arthur mine continues to operate as it currently does".
Mr Rush is calling for the government to step in and take action, otherwise the situation will remain unchanged.
"BHP make tens of millions of dollars every month so a few fines ranging from $15000 to $1500 aren't going to stop anything. They need to have their mining licence suspended so a more environmentally aware company can take over".
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| Mount Arthur Coal Mine Photo Source; Newcastle Herald |
