Residential Environment Protection Issues 

Environment Protection Act 1997 (the Act)

The Act provides the regulatory framework to protect the environment from pollution and its effects. The Act establishes the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) as the statutory decision maker for environmental regulation and policy. The EPA administers legislation covering air and water quality, waste, contaminated land, noise control, pesticides and hazardous chemicals.

The Act provides for each person in the ACT to take all practicable and reasonable steps to prevent or minimise environmental harm or environmental nuisance. That means that all Canberrans have a duty to protect the environment.

For more information: Environment Protection Act 1997 ( PDF 79.9Kb)

Stormwater Pollution from Residential Areas

The stormwater system drains directly into our creeks, lakes and rivers without treatment. The Act aims to protect our aquatic environments by keeping stormwater as clean as possible. You can do your part by becoming more aware of how your activities affect water quality.

For more information: Stormwater Pollution from Residential Areas  ( PDF 86Kb)

Noise in Residential Areas

Sport, entertainment, commercial and domestic activities can generate levels of noise ranging from being a nuisance to actually damaging people’s health. Neighbourhood noise (generated by air conditioning units, stereos, maintenance work etc), is a common cause of noise related complaints. The EPA encourages all residents to talk to their neighbours about problems before making a complaint.

For more information: Noise in Residential Areas ( PDF 314Kb)

Air Conditioning Units

When purchasing and installing reverse cycle air conditioners, heat pumps, pool pumps, evaporative coolers etc, ensure that you consider the location in relation to neighbours. Seek advice from the installer on whether the unit will comply with the noise standard in the proposed location, or contact the EPA for further information.

To help reduce air conditioning noise: you can limit hours of use; select a quieter air conditioner; locate air conditioners as far away as possible from neighbours and away from sensitive areas, such as bedroom windows; regularly service your equipment (as lack of maintenance can cause higher noise levels); erect a solid fence or barrier; install an acoustic enclosure; or modify equipment (discuss this option with the manufacturer or installer).

For more information: Refrigeration Air Conditioning and Heating
The link below will take you to the five step guide to choosing a cooling system for your home.
www.fairair.com.au 

Air Pollution from Domestic Premises

The Act aims to ensure that air quality in the ACT meets national standards by minimising environmental harm from local emissions of air pollutants, while still permitting necessary or socially acceptable activities to take place. The Act places a responsibility of care for the local environment on ACT residents.

For more information: Air Pollution from Domestic Premises ( PDF 88.1Kb)

Your Guide to Using a Wood Heater

The key to clean and efficient wood heating is knowing how to operate your wood heater correctly. Incorrect use produces insufficient heat and causes pollution.

For more information: Your Guide to Using a Wood Heater ( PDF 298Kb)  

Household Chemicals

Commonly used household chemicals include: household cleaners: aerosol sprays; automotive supplies (including oil); paints and thinners; stains and varnishes; old art supplies; photographic chemicals; pool chemicals; batteries; pesticides and garden chemicals.

If misused or accidentally spilled, some of these chemicals are potentially hazardous to the environment due to their corrosive, flammable or reactive properties.

For more information: Household Chemicals ( PDF 86Kb)  

For more information on ways to reduce the use of chemicals in your home, visit the Safter Solutions website.

Pest and Weed Control

Agricultural and veterinary chemicals (pesticides) are purchased and applied in the ACT by a diverse range of users. Users include members of the public, commercial pest control businesses, and other businesses such as forestry and golf courses. The most common use of pesticides in the ACT is to control pests in homes and gardens.

For more information: Pest and Weed Control 

For more information on ways to reduce the use of chemicals in your garden, visit the Safter Solutions website.

Environment Protection Information Sheets

• Air Pollution from Domestic Premises (PDF 118Kb )
• Household Chemicals ( PDF 6Kb )
• Stormwater Pollution from Residential Areas ( PDF 152Kb)
• Noise in Residential Areas ( PDF 314Kb)
• The Environment Protection Act—What's it all About? ( PDF 79.8Kb)
• Your Guide to Using a Wood Heater ( PDF 298Kb)