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Coal Mine Pollutes Sydney's Drinking Water River
29 Jan
Summary
- Coal mine discharge caused high salinity spikes in Coxs River.
- Pollution threatens Sydney's drinking water supply from Warragamba Dam.
- EPA issued a clean-up notice to Centennial Coal's Springvale mine.
The Coxs River, which feeds into Sydney's Warragamba Dam, has been polluted by dirty water from Centennial Coal's Springvale mine. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) issued a clean-up notice to the mine on January 23, citing significant spikes in the river's salinity. These discharges, monitored by the coal company, have shown electrical conductivity levels as high as 4270 μS/cm, far exceeding natural levels and posing a threat to aquatic life.
Water scientist Professor Ian Wright described the discharge point as poorly regulated and noted a concerning salinity plume extending down the Coxs River. While Warragamba Dam remains within safe drinking water limits, the health of the Coxs River, home to platypuses and other wildlife, is a primary concern. The EPA has directed Centennial Coal to reduce its water discharge volume, with progressive deadlines for compliance extending to May. Concerns also exist regarding other pollutants like zinc and nickel, with concentrations exceeding safe levels for aquatic life even when below EPA license limits.
