Marino: EPA to investigate dust levels coming from Linwood Quarry

For more than 30 years residents have complained about dust they say comes from the Linwood Quarry. Now a solution could be in sight. See how you can help.

Marino residents may finally see a solution to a longstanding dust issue as the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) launches a 12-month dust study in the area.

The EPA has invited residents in the area to participate in the study and assess dust levels over the next 12 months.

Local resident and 5049 Community group member Beryl Hall said the community has been impacted by dust – which they believe comes from the nearby Linwood Quarry – for more than 30 years.

“The dust continues to cover homes, gardens and cars around the area, and residents have long believed that breathing the fine particles in the air is causing health problems,” she said.

“We are looking forward to participating in the EPA study on dust and the findings on how the amount of dust can be lessened.

“Especially the findings on whether the dust is impacting on the health of local residents.”

A spokeswoman from Boral – who own the Linwood Quarry – said there were dust monitors installed at the quarry and a number of measures in place to manage dust including dust extraction and water spray systems.

“Boral has recently received approval for, and commenced construction of, an alternative access road to support the Linwood Quarry,” she said.

Marino residents believe Boral‘s Linwood Quarry (pictured) is to blame for heightened dust levels in the region.

“The new path for heavy vehicles both in and out of quarry is expected to reduce traffic movements in Marino and lead to improved dust suppression.

“Boral works collaboratively with the EPA and has already conveyed its willingness to participate in the dust study recently announced by this agency.”

As part of the study, the EPA will install three dust monitors in the region and real-time air quality data will be published on the EPA website.

EPA acting director of science and information Andrew Solomon said the authority had been aware “for quite some time” of community concern about dust levels.

“The dust study has been prompted by Marino residents and community group representatives who believe dust levels in the area are at higher than acceptable levels,” Mr Solomon said.

“So far 15 people have contacted us saying they would like to participate in the study and many of these have offered to host a dust monitor on their property.

“The study will determine if the dust experienced by the community exceeds relevant public health-based national standards and if the dust in Marino differs from that in other city suburbs.”

The monitors will capture smaller dust particles which have the potential to enter lungs and impact health.

The EPA will work with SA Health to determine if the dust poses any health risk to residents and will present the findings in mid-2022.

Marino residents wishing to be involved should complete the community working group application form on the EPA website and return to [e-mail] by April 30, 2021.