Public Forum on Environmental Implications of Coal Seam Gas and Coal Mining in NSW
6 - 8pm. Monday, 16 May 2011
Bldg 19, Eastern Avenue Auditorium, University of Sydney
Coal seam gas is hailed as the energy source with a smaller carbon footprint than coal. However, coal mining and coal seam gas projects proposed for the Liverpool Plains, Hunter Valley, St Peters, Warragamba Dam catchment could cause considerable environmental damage and loss of prime agricultural lands.
Damage to aquifers, competition for groundwater and disposal of extracted salt water are concerns of farmers and rural towns, as are the chemicals injected for Fracking the coal seams to extract the gas. Fugitive emissions from pipes, well leaks and coal mines can release damaging methane.
Particulates from open cut mining can cause health hazards. How can agriculture and mining co-exist in these regions? The Mining Companies are proposing solutions. New State government regulations and adequate monitoring of mining operations are urgently required to minimise these potential environmental and health hazards.
This public forum will be chaired by radio broadcaster Phillip Adams and opened by distinguished union and environmental activist Jack Mundey.
Speakers will include:
-
Assoc Prof Stephen Cattle, University Sydney Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources on mining effects on soils and agriculture;
-
Dr John Williams, NSW Natural Resources Commissioner and Wentworth Group of Scientists on water resources;
-
Assoc Prof Ruth Colagiuri, University of Sydney Medical School on health issues;
-
Tim Duddy, Caroona Coal Action Group;
-
Kirsty Ruddock, Environmental Defender's Office; and
- government and industry representatives.
The Nature Conservation Council of NSW is a proud supporter of this public forum.
Other supporters include the Australian Conservation Foundation, NSW Farmers Association, University of Sydney and Friends of the Earth.
