Australia’s decision to extend the lifespan of three coal mines has been met with strong backlash from climate advocates, who labeled it a “betrayal.” They warn that this move will add another 1.3 billion tonnes of emissions to the atmosphere. The three thermal coal mines in southeastern Australia will now remain operational for an additional 8 to 22 years, supplying fuel for electricity generation.
As many of Australia’s 16 coal-fired power stations are scheduled to close soon, authorities are under pressure to find alternative energy sources. Despite significant investments in renewable energy, the government opted to prolong the life of certain coal mines due to delays and lengthy construction processes.
The recent decision, made on Tuesday, allows the mines in the Hunter Valley—famous for its wine and mining industries—and one at Narrabri, further north in New South Wales, to extend their operations and expand underground activities. Gavan McFadzean, climate program manager at the Australian Conservation Foundation, criticized the move, stating it would produce “more than 1.3 billion tonnes of lifetime emissions” and hinder Australia’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
He emphasized that this decision would negatively impact Australia’s unique natural environment and exacerbate the climate crisis. “These approvals will have consequences for everyday Australians who face the brunt of climate damage,” he said.
Joe Rafalowicz from Greenpeace Australia Pacific echoed these sentiments, calling the decision “a betrayal” of climate commitments by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government. “At a time when the world is transitioning away from fossil fuels, the Albanese government has chosen to support fossil fuel interests,” he said. “It is simply indefensible.”
Australia continues to be one of the world’s top exporters of coal and gas, heavily relying on fossil fuels for energy. Mr. Albanese’s Centre-left Labor government, which came to power in 2022 on a promise of ambitious climate action after years of stagnation, pledged to reduce national emissions by 43% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.
A spokesperson for Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek defended the decision, stating it was made in line with “facts and national environmental law.” They added that emissions from the coal mine extensions would be regulated under stringent new climate laws.
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