The Nature Conservation Council of NSW (NCC) says that the Independent Planning Commission’s (IPC) approval of Santos’ Narrabri gas project is a blow to nature in the state.
“Santos now has the green light to desecrate the Pilliga forest – turning it into an industrial gas field that will damage groundwater, carve up the forest and endanger koalas and other threatened species” said NCC Campaigns Director Dr Brad Smith.
“Never has a project in NSW seen such enormous public opposition at all levels – from the Gomeroi Traditional Custodians who fought to protect the enormous traditional significance of the Pilliga to the 404 people who appeared at a record 7 days of public hearings”
“The NSW Government has turned its back on traditional owners, farmers and local communities in North West NSW who are fighting to protect their water, land and livelihoods and stop this project wreaking havoc on our climate.”
“Government and planning authorities must stop supporting gas projects that release millions of tonnes of potent climate pollution.”
“Existing coal and gas fields will push the world past globally agreed temperature goals. There is no room, or need, for more.”
“If the government wants to do something about gas, it should focus on electrification of Australian businesses and households with heat pumps for hot water, reverse-cycle air conditioning for space heating and induction cooktops.”
“Our economy can’t use dirty fuels any longer. Jobs and industries are already built on clean energy technology and NSW is getting left behind.”
“We call on the government to commit to ensuring the IPC’s conditions aren’t swept under the rug, and Santos actually comes up with a salt management plan and a compliant groundwater model before construction commences.