WASHINGTON: Port Kembla grain terminal operator Quattro Ports has been fined $15,000 for exceeding greenhouse gas emissions while fumigating its grain stocks. Quattro initially reported a breach of its methyl bromide emission limits in February during the commissioning of the terminal, then reported further breaches two months later, prompting the Environmental Protection Authority to issue the fine.
EPA spokesman Peter Bloem said licences, such as the one held by Quattro, set strict requirements for the use of methyl bromide. “The EPA has set these licence requirements in discussion with Quattro Ports to protect the environment and community,” he said. “They were supported by air quality impact assessments to ensure unacceptable environmental impacts did not occur. This is because methyl bromide can be acutely toxic to plants, animals and people and requires careful management.” Mr Bloem confirmed the level and duration of Quattro’s breaches were “unlikely to have caused harm to the surrounding community or environment”. However, he said measures have been implemented at the site to prevent any recurrence.
