Serious Allegations Against Landfill in Lower Austria: Operator Fights Back
Greenpeace had recently suspected a larger extent, these statements were rejected by Zöchling Waste Management GmbH in a press release. The "accusations are based purely on speculation and assumptions", it was emphasized. Results of investigations are still pending according to the state of Lower Austria.
Operator Rejects Greenpeace Statements
Based on aerial and satellite images from 2007 to 2024, Greenpeace has identified four new suspected areas for incorrect landfilling. "The introduction of untreated residual and bulky waste into the landfill has apparently been taking place since 2021," the environmental organization reported. There is suspicion that the waste was not disposed of in accordance with the law, for example, it was moved to a less protected construction waste landfill. The authorities were asked to double the current search radius. In addition, the depth needs to be expanded, and an examination of the area using archaeological soil exploration methods is also required.
Zöchling defended itself on Friday against the Greenpeace statements. They expect "that the results of the official investigations will be awaited before baseless accusations not only endanger the existence of the company, but the entire waste disposal infrastructure in Eastern Austria."
Interim Storage is Officially Approved
Photo material evaluated by Greenpeace documents "a proper, regular landfill and interim storage operation within the framework of the current permits", according to Zöchling Waste Management GmbH. "The interim storage visible in the pictures is officially approved and legally permitted for the storage of residual waste." The suspected scandal, that there has been a "large-scale conversion" since the landfill was taken over by the city of St. Pölten by Zöchling in 2019, is economically justifiable. "With the purchase of the 'Am Ziegelhofen' landfill, the company has taken on the obligation to secure, recultivate and provide aftercare. These measures are covered by an ongoing operation."
They have assured the responsible authorities of full support and have initiated an internal review. The operator also assured that "at no time was there a risk to the environment from the landfill at the St. Pölten location". "The landfill gas capture system can prevent the escape of gases. Contamination of the groundwater is also not possible due to the enclosure of the landfill."
Landfill Temporarily Closed Since December
The landfill was temporarily closed following an unannounced inspection in December. The entire dumping area of the current operator has been examined so far, said Leopold Schalhas, head of the Department of Environmental and Plant Law of the state of Lower Austria. If the investigations reveal violations, appropriate procedures will be initiated.
(APA/Red)
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