The federal government has approved extensions for three NSW coal mines, with one set to operate until 2050. Opponents criticized the decisions as detrimental to climate action, but Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek defended them, citing adherence to national environment laws.
The approvals cover MACH Energy’s Mount Pleasant mine, Yancoal Australia’s Ravensworth project, and Whitehaven’s Narrabri venture, supporting around 1800 jobs combined. However, critics like The Australia Institute and Lock the Gate Alliance condemned the approvals, emphasizing the projects’ environmental impact.
Plibersek clarified that these were extensions, not new projects, and each decision was made based on existing laws. The government’s efforts to pass environmental reforms, including the Nature Positive Act, have been met with backlash from environmental groups like the Australian Conservation Foundation.
Despite the controversy, Minerals Council of Australia CEO Tania Constable welcomed the approvals, highlighting the delays and costs associated with legal challenges against the projects.
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