Australia’s new environmental protection agency approves coal project, angering climate groups

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Published: 2026-09-03T02:38:02.692Z • Permanent link

Queensland's Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has approved a coal mining project in the state's Bowen Basin, sparking widespread anger among climate groups. The mine, operated by Queensland Resources Limited (QRL), has been granted permission to extract coal until 2055, despite growing concerns over the impact on the environment and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The EPA's decision has been met with criticism from environmental organizations, including the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) and the Climate Action Network (CAN), who argue that the project is incompatible with Australia's climate goals.

The project, which has been under development for several years, is expected to produce 12 million tonnes of coal per year, with exports bound for countries such as China and India. QRL has maintained that the project will be carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner, with measures in place to minimize environmental impact. However, environmental groups have raised concerns over the potential for pollution, habitat destruction, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. In a statement, ACF CEO, Murray Smith, said: "The EPA's decision is a major setback for climate action in Australia. We urge the Queensland Government to reconsider its approval and work towards a more sustainable future for our state and the world.

The approval has also sparked tensions between the Queensland Government and Pacific Island nations, which have been critical of Australia's stance on climate change and fossil fuels. In a recent statement, Fijian Prime Minister, Frank Bainimarama, said: "We urge the Australian Government to take a more decisive action on climate change and to support the development of renewable energy sources in the Pacific region." The approval has also been met with criticism from some in the mining industry, who argue that it sends a positive signal for investment in coal mining projects.

The approval of the coal mining project has significant implications for the global infrastructure sector, particularly in the areas of energy and resource extraction. QRL is one of the largest coal miners in Australia, and the project is expected to be a major contributor to the country's energy mix. However, the approval also raises concerns over the long-term viability of coal as a source of energy, particularly in a world where renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly cost-competitive.

The approval has also sparked debate over the role of government in regulating the energy sector. Some argue that the EPA's decision reflects a lack of ambition on the part of the Queensland Government, which has been criticized for its handling of climate change policy. However, others argue that the approval is a necessary step towards economic development and job creation in the region. In a statement, QRL CEO, Paul Harding, said: "We are committed to responsible and sustainable mining practices, and we believe that our project will be a major contributor to the Queensland economy.

The approval of the coal mining project is part of a broader pattern of regulatory ambiguity in the energy sector. In recent years, there have been several high-profile approvals for coal mining projects in Australia, despite growing concerns over the impact on the environment and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The Queensland Government has been criticized for its handling of climate change policy, with some arguing that it is not doing enough to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, others argue that the government is taking steps to promote economic development and job creation in the region.