Queensland court clears $1 billion Whitehaven coal mine despite climate concerns
The Queensland Land Court approved Whitehaven Coal's Winchester South coal mine despite climate concerns.
One of Australia's largest proposed coal mines has cleared a major legal hurdle. Queensland's Land Court rejected a challenge from environmental groups.
Whitehaven Coal's Winchester South project will produce mostly metallurgical coal for steel. The project will also produce some thermal coal over 35 years.
Judge Nicholas Loos acknowledged the project would cause 557 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. But he said similar impacts would happen elsewhere.
The Australian Conservation Foundation and Mackay Conservation Group opposed the mine over climate and environmental impacts. The mine is expected to create 500 construction and operational jobs.
It will generate $696 million in royalties. The project still needs final approval from Queensland and the federal government before it can operate.
- 1 billion dollars
- Project value
- 17 million tonnes
- Annual coal production
- 557 million tonnes CO2 equivalent
- Total CO2 emissions over life
- 500 construction and operational
- Jobs created
Why it mattersThis opens the door for a major new coal export operation. But it only happens if state and federal governments approve it in coming months.
AustraliaIf approved, the mine would boost Queensland's coal exports and regional employment, but lock in decades of coal production when Australia is transitioning to renewables.
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