In response to Environment Minster Tanya Plibersek's approval of three coal mines - the Narrabri underground coal mine, Mount Pleasant coal mine and Ashton coal mine - the Australian Conservation Foundation's climate program manager Gavan McFadzean said:
"This decision is the opposite of climate action.
"Together, these coal mines will generate more than 1.3 billion tonnes of lifetime emissions which will undermine Australia reaching net zero by 2050.
"It is grossly irresponsible to be approving coal mines when global scientists and the International Energy Agency have repeated calls for no new coal and gas projects if we have any chance of having a safe climate.
"The Albanese government came to office promising to be champions for climate action and it continues to disappoint.
"It is insincere to pursue clean export projects through the Future Made in Australia policy while also approving major coal projects.
"This is not a good look ahead of the government's Global Nature Positive summit, which gets underway in early October.
"Whitehaven's Narrabri coal mine alone threatens several iconic and threatened species such as the Regent Honeyeater, Koala, Pilliga mouse and Corben Long-eared bat.
"Climate damage is here now and Australia's unique and precious nature is suffering the consequences.
"Coal is fuelling the climate crisis that causes extreme weather like bushfires and floods.
"These approvals will have consequences for everyday Australians who are forced to live on the forefront of climate damage."
