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'Grossly irresponsible': Coal mine extensions criticised by environmental groups

The government has approved extensions to three coal mines; a move Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said was consistent with environmental laws.

Tanya Plibersek speaking

Minister for Environment Tanya Plibersek has signed off on extensions to three coal mines. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

A decision by the federal government to extend three coal mines is in line with climate laws, the environment minister says, despite concerns the move undermines credibility in tackling rising emissions.

The background: Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek signed off on extensions to two coal mines in the NSW Hunter Valley and another in the state's north-west.

Greens leader Adam Bandt said the decision damaged the government's standing on climate action. Climate program manager at the Australian Conservation Foundation Gavan McFadzean described it as "grossly irresponsible".
Plibersek said the decision was consistent with environmental laws, and noted they were all extensions on existing operations, not new projects.

The key quote: "It is grossly irresponsible to be approving coal mines when global scientists and the International Energy Agency have repeated calls for no new coal and gas projects if we have any chance of having a safe climate." - Gavan McFadzean

What else to know: It is expected emissions from the extensions meet the threshold under the federal government's safeguard mechanism, which aims at reducing emissions from large industrial sites.


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Published 24 September 2024 9:15pm
Source: SBS, AAP



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