Australia and Turkey hosting climate summit while expanding coal exports
Australia approved its biggest coal mine expansion while hosting climate talks next month.
Australia and Turkey will host COP31 climate talks next month. Environmental groups criticise them for expanding coal and gas while leading climate talks.
Days before a planning meeting in Fiji and Tuvalu, New South Wales approved a 19-year coal mine extension at the Hunter Valley Operations coal mine. The mine could produce 809 million tonnes of carbon dioxide if it gets federal approval.
Australia ranks among the world's largest coal and liquid natural gas exporters. Shipments this year are worth over A$140 billion.
Campaign group 350.org noted something important. Australia and Turkey have not mentioned fossil fuels in public statements about the summit.
Climate minister Chris Bowen said Australia helps trading partners move to renewable energy while staying reliable. Both countries should announce coal phase-out dates, the group says, to show real commitment.
- Turkey and Australia
- COP31 host countries
- 19 years
- Coal mine extension years
- 809 million tonnes
- Potential CO2 emissions
- Over A$140 billion
- Coal and LNG export value
Why it mattersThe world's largest coal exporters are hosting climate talks. If they keep expanding fossil fuels, it sends a message that countries can promise climate action while still making money from the fuels causing the crisis.
AustraliaAustralia's role as COP31 negotiation president is undermined by approving major coal mining expansion, potentially weakening its credibility in pushing other nations to phase out fossil fuels.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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