Dumping Plan Scrapped, But Coal Terminal's Threat to Great Barrier Reef Remains
Published on Tuesday, September 02, 2014
by Common Dreams
Dumping Plan Scrapped, But Coal Terminal's Threat to Great Barrier Reef Remains
News met with cautious approval as environmentalists warn that expanded export terminal still poses grave threat to both World Heritage site and planet
by Lauren McCauley, staff writer
After international outcry and fierce opposition from environmental groups, developers of Australia's Abbot Point coal terminal are reportedly scrapping plans to dump millions of tons of dredged sediment on the Great Barrier Reef.
According to the Australian Financial Review, the developers—North Queensland Bulk Ports, GVK Hancock and Adani Group—are expected to re-submit a proposal as early as this week to Australian environment minister Greg Hunt proposing alternative, on-land dumping sites. The paper reported Tuesday that the new proposal is "designed to neutralize controversy over potential damage to the reef and avoid a court case launched by the North Queensland Conservation Council."
Reports of the change were met with cautious approval.
"If the reports are true, the cheapest, most destructive option for expanding Abbot Point may have been taken off the table," said Adam Walters, Greenpeace head of research. However, he added that the continued threat from the coal industry expansion plans is still "urgent."
“The community’s pressure has forced industry to look more seriously at land-based options. And it has put a spotlight on the failure of government to put the Reef ahead of the interests of mining companies Adani and GVK," said Felicity Wishart, Great Barrier Reef campaign director for the Australian Marine Conservation Society.
More:
http://www.commondreams.org/news/2014/09/02/dumping-plan-scrapped-coal-terminals-threat-great-barrier-reef-remains
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