Key Takeaways
- Car owners in Auckland are being warned to be mindful of where water run-off ends up when washing vehicles at home to avoid hefty fines.
- Amendments to the 1991 Resource Management Act introduced stiffer penalties for individuals and companies polluting waterways, with fines of $1500 for individuals and $3000 for companies.
- Washing vehicles on sealed surfaces can contaminate stormwater systems, poisoning aquatic life and damaging habitats.
- Car owners are advised to wash vehicles on unsealed ground or divert run-off to unsealed ground using sandbags.
- Commercial car washes can provide a safe alternative, discharging run-off into a wastewater system that is treated.
Introduction to Water Pollution Fines
Authorities are warning car owners to be mindful of where the water run-off ends up when washing vehicles at home if they wish to avoid a hefty fine. The warning comes after one social media user expressed surprise upon learning that a friend received a fine for washing their car on an Auckland driveway late last year. This incident has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of being aware of the environmental impacts of washing vehicles at home. The RedNote post attracted hundreds of comments, highlighting the need for greater awareness and education on this issue.
The Risks of Contaminating Stormwater Systems
Amendments to the 1991 Resource Management Act introduced stiffer penalties for individuals and companies polluting waterways, poisoning aquatic life or damaging habitats in September. Individuals discharging contaminants such as cleaning products into stormwater systems face fines of $1500, while companies can be fined $3000. The fine individuals faced if they contaminated stormwater systems before the September amendment was $750. Jesse Hindt, acting compliance manager at Auckland Council, said car owners should be aware of the wider environmental impacts when washing vehicles on sealed surfaces. "On concrete surfaces like driveways or the road, wash water will generally flow into our stormwater system, which drains directly into streams, rivers and the sea," Hindt said.
The Impact of Washing Vehicles on Sealed Surfaces
The water could carry detergents, oil, fuel residues, metals and dirt that contaminate waterways, poisoning aquatic life and damaging habitats, he said. "Even biodegradable detergents pollute waterways," Hindt said. This is a critical point to consider, as many car owners may assume that using biodegradable detergents is enough to prevent environmental harm. However, the reality is that any contaminants can have a negative impact on aquatic life and habitats. To prevent this from happening, the council advises people to wash their vehicles on unsealed ground such as gravel or grass or divert run-off to unsealed ground using sandbags.
Alternative Solutions for Car Owners
Carla Gee, chief executive at EcoMatters Environment Trust, said people who were unable to wash their cars on unsealed ground could bring vehicles to a commercial car wash that would discharge the run-off into a wastewater system that was treated. "Stormwater drains are only for rain," she said. "They flow through streams to the sea, so don’t put anything in there that you wouldn’t want in your kaimoana (seafood)." This is a simple yet effective solution for car owners who want to avoid contaminating stormwater systems. Additionally, pouring dirty water into toilets or sinks instead can also help to prevent pollution, as this water will be discharged into the sewage system and treated.
Community Car Washes and Event Organisers
Auckland Council also warned organisers of community car washes that used a large quantity of wash water, including fundraising events, to ensure the run-off did not enter the stormwater system. Organisers were advised to cover and block any stormwater catchpits, divert wash water to unsealed ground or ask Watercare for permission to discharge to the sewer system, and block the catchpit outflow and remove excess water with a wet vacuum. This is an important consideration for community groups and event organisers, as they may not be aware of the potential environmental impacts of their activities. By taking simple steps to prevent contamination, these groups can help to protect local waterways and habitats.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, car owners in Auckland are being warned to be mindful of where water run-off ends up when washing vehicles at home to avoid hefty fines. The amendments to the 1991 Resource Management Act have introduced stiffer penalties for individuals and companies polluting waterways, and it is essential that car owners take steps to prevent contamination. By washing vehicles on unsealed ground, diverting run-off to unsealed ground, or using commercial car washes, car owners can help to protect local waterways and habitats. As Carla Gee said, "We love our rivers and beaches, and we want our kids and grandkids to be able to enjoy them." By taking simple steps to prevent pollution, we can all play a role in protecting our environment for future generations.
