In response to Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek’s approval of three coal mine extensions – Boggabri, Caval Ridge and Lake Vermont Meadowbrook – the Australian Conservation Foundation’s climate program manager Gavan McFadzean said:
“Approving coal projects is the opposite of climate action.
“Together, these three coal mine extensions will generate more than 850 million tonnes of lifetime emissions, undermining Australia’s emissions targets and our claims to be a good global citizen and a good neighbour to Pacific nations.
“Climate scientists and the International Energy Agency say the world cannot approve new coal and gas projects.
“The Albanese government keeps trying to walk both sides of the street – supporting clean export and manufacturing initiatives through its Future Made in Australia package while also approving major expansions of coal mines.
“Jellinbah Group’s Lake Vermont coal project in Queensland’s Bowen Basin would produce 348 million tonnes of climate emissions and threatens habitat of koalas, greater gliders and ornamental snakes – all endangered species.
“BHP Mitsubishi’s Caval Ridge coal project on Barada Barna country in central Queensland would produce 473 million tonnes of climate emissions and threatens the endangered Brigalow ecological community and natural grasslands.
“Idemitsu’s Boggabri thermal coal project on Gomeroi country in north-west NSW north would produce 63 million tonnes of climate emissions and threatens habitat for the Regent honeyeater, microbats that need tree to nest in and box-gum woodlands.
“Coal is fuelling the climate crisis, making bushfires, heatwaves and floods more frequent and more intense.
“These coal mine approvals will have consequences for Australians who are forced to live with the reality of a damaged climate.”
Contact details:
Josh Meadows 0439 342 992, josh.meadows@acf.org.au