Due to the unplanned lack of wood supply to the Maryvale Mill, Opal has made the difficult decision to close its white paper operations.

Although the Mill is no longer producing white pulp and paper, it continues to manufacture brown packaging paper and board.

As a result of necessary changes to the Mill’s operations caused by the lack of wood supply, Opal applied to the EPA Victoria seeking temporary relief on certain elements of its operating licence for 120 days. This was granted on 22 December 2022.

On 22 February 2023, emissions of sulphur dioxide (SO₂) from a Recovery Boiler were exceeded – 5,440 grams per minute (g/m) versus the limit of 5,000 g/m.

As a consequence, the EPA advised Opal Australian Paper that its temporary licence, ceased to have effect from 24 March 2023.

The Maryvale Mill has now reverted back to its previous EPA operating licence.

Opal Australian Paper takes its environmental obligations very seriously and is proactively engaging with the EPA to ensure it meets compliance requirements and manages the risk of harm to the environment and human health.

Next steps

Opal Australian Paper is taking the following steps to address compliance of SO₂ emissions:

• The Maryvale Mill is reviewing and improving operating conditions. This includes installation of equipment that will assist in reducing SO₂
• A dedicated team has been set up to review all possible actions that can be implemented to ensure ongoing compliance with the EPA’s limit for SO₂
• The team is working with expert consultants to assess the best environmental compliance pathways going forward.
• Questions about Opal Australian Paper’s operating licence can be emailed to: communications@opalanz.com
• Future updates will be accessible here