February 4, 2016
Massive win for the community in Gloucester and Camden – focus now on saving the Pilliga
The Nature Conservation Council welcomes AGL’s decision to abandon its plans for an industrial gas field in Gloucester and to fast-track its exit from Camden as a victory for the community and the environment. [1]
“This decision clearly demonstrates how risky investment in CSG ventures now is, and that the coal seam gas industry does not have a social licence to operate in NSW,” Nature Conservation Council CEO Kate Smolski said.
“Without community support, these projects are doomed to fail. Companies that attempt to impose this dirty industry on unwilling communities will suffer significant reputational damage and potentially large financial losses.
“We would advise the new Santos CEO to closely examine AGL’s experience in Gloucester.
“Santos must be aware the movement will now turn it’s full attention to ending the threat posed by CSG to the Pilliga, the largest woodland left in NSW, where Santos plans to drill more than 850 wells.
“Today’s announcement is a clear victory for the people of Gloucester, Camden and all the people of NSW who have been fighting to defend our pure water supplies, productive farmlands and sensitive natural areas.
“We call on AGL to prioritise the closure of wells with a history of leaks near homes at Spring Farm to ensure that community does not live with this threat for several more years.
“The Baird government should provide the leadership NSW residents want by banning CSG operations in our drinking water catchments, productive farmlands and special nature areas.”
[1] Media release: Review of gas assets and exit of gas exploration and production, AGL, February 4, 2016
https://www.agl.com.au/about-agl/media-centre/article-list/2016/february/review-of-gas-assets-and-exit-of-gas-exploration-and-production#verify
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