Project Details

Element prepared the Modification 2 application for Bettergrow's Ravensworth Composting Facility to enable the receipt and processing of additional recovered organic materials while maintaining the site's approved processing capacity and operational footprint. The project supports the expansion of circular economy outcomes through improved resource recovery and beneficial reuse of organic materials.

Element prepared a comprehensive Modification Report under Section 4.55 of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act to support amendments to SSD-9418 for the Ravensworth Composting Facility. The proposed modifications included approval to receive and process decontaminated and pasteurised Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) and other food recovered materials, blend Virgin Excavated Natural Material (VENM) and Excavated Natural Material (ENM) with recovered organics, and install a 65,000-litre diesel storage tank. Importantly, the proposal did not increase the facility's approved throughput, operating hours, workforce, traffic movements or development footprint.

Element Engagement

Element was engaged by Bettergrow to lead the planning and environmental approval process for Modification 2, including:

  • Preparing the Modification Report to support the Section 4.55 application.
  • Undertaking the environmental impact assessment in accordance with NSW Department guidelines.
  • Managing technical inputs and demonstrating environmental impacts were acceptable.
  • Consulting with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regarding assessment requirements and project scope.
  • Preparing documentation for submission to DPHI.

Project Achievements

Element successfully delivered a robust environmental assessment that demonstrated the proposed modifications could be implemented without increasing the facility's approved throughput, footprint, traffic, workforce or operating hours. Through early engagement with regulators and a comprehensive assessment of environmental impacts—including odour management, waste recovery, operational performance and planning compliance—Element positioned the project to support Bettergrow's continued expansion of food organics recovery while aligning with NSW circular economy objectives. The report also drew on the facility's strong environmental performance record, including independent audit findings and the absence of recorded community complaints since January 2023.