A local programme to prevent industrial pollution affecting the stormwater network was recently completed in the Mount Roskill area. The programme assesses industrial sites for current and potential issues that could impact nearby waterways and provides recommendations to businesses.
Funded by the Puketāpapa Local Board, an Auckland Council contractor conducted 80 visits to industrial businesses, and of these a total of 34 issues were identified. Recommendation reports were issued to 23 businesses outlining actions required to prevent pollution entering the stormwater network and waterways.
Board chair Ella Kumar is pleased with this result.
“It is so important that we all work together to look after our environment. This project is just one of many great initiatives we support to help businesses and community be aware of how their actions affect what’s precious to us.
“The local board has prioritised for our natural environment to be valued and cared for, where people feel a sense of connection and can live in environmentally sustainable ways,” explains Chair Kumar.
Chemical storage without secondary containment can potentially pollute our waterways.
A total of $21,000 was allocated to the industrial pollution prevention programme in the 2022/2023 financial year.
Common issues discovered through assessments include:
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businesses without active spill plans to implement in case of chemical spillage
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washing equipment and chemicals without secondary containment stored near stormwater drains
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exposed raw materials, such as polystyrene potentially entering drains
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lack of awareness of keeping washwater and biodegradable chemicals away from stormwater drains.
Litter cluttering up stormwater drain catchpit.
As at 1 August 2023, more than 70 per cent of recommendations were implemented. However, the pollution risk remains at large with businesses and employee changes over time. Follow-up visits are recommended for three-years’ time.
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