Carmichael coal mine: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Coal mine in Queensland, Australia}} |
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{{Infobox mine |
{{Infobox mine |
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| name = Carmichael coal mine |
| name = Carmichael coal mine |
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| alt = A haul truck moves overburden at Carmichael Coal Mine (2022) |
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| coordinates = {{coord|22|03|S|146|23|E|format=dms|display=inline,title}} |
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| place = [[Isaac Region|Isaac Region, Queensland]] |
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| country = Australia |
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| products = Thermal coal |
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| place = about 160 km northwest of [[Clermont, Queensland|Clermont]] |
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| type = Open-pit |
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| products = Thermal coal |
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| owner = [[Bravus Mining & Resources]], an [[Adani Group]] subsidiary |
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| official website = {{official| https://www.bravusmining.com.au/carmichael-mine/}} |
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The '''Carmichael coal mine''' is a [[Coal mining|coal mine]] in [[Queensland]], Australia, owned by the [[Adani Group]]'s Australian subsidiary [[Bravus Mining & Resources]]. It was approved by the government in 2014 and has been operational since December 2021. The mine was initially planned to produce 60 million tonnes of coal per year; however, funding difficulties resulted in downsizing the planned mine to produce 10 million tonnes per year. Construction of the mine started in June 2019, and on 29 December 2021 the first coal shipment from the Carmichael Mine was ready for export. |
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The '''Carmichael coal mine''' is a proposed thermal [[coal]] mine in the north of the [[Galilee Basin]] in [[Central Queensland]], Australia. Mining is planned to be conducted by both open-cut and underground methods.<ref name="ccmarp">{{cite web |url=http://www.adanimining.com/Australia-Carmichael-coal |title=Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project |publisher=Adani Mining |accessdate=2 August 2014 }}</ref> The mine is proposed by Adani Mining, a wholly owned subsidiary of India's [[Adani Group]]. The development represents a $16.5 billion investment.<ref name="prov"/> |
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The mine has drawn criticism for its environmental impacts on the [[Great Barrier Reef]], water usage, and [[carbon emissions]], leading to a campaign known as [[Stop Adani]]. It has been dogged by legal issues relating mainly to the environmental aspects. Other contentious issues are its claimed economic benefits, financial viability, and use of taxpayer funding. |
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At peak capacity the mine would produce 60 million tonnes of coal a year. In court Adani said it expects the mine to produce 2.3 billion tonnes over 60 years.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url = http://envlaw.com.au/wp-content/uploads/carmichael14.pdf|title = JOINT REPORT to the Land Court of Queensland on "Climate Change – Emissions", (2015) Adani Mining Pty Ltd (Adani) v Land Services of Coast and Country Inc & Ors|date = |accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = |first = }}</ref> It would be the largest coal mine in Australia and one of the largest in the world.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Business Spectator news|url = http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2015/7/1/policy-politics/adani-mine-unbankable-says-qld-treasuryand-anyone-calculator|website = www.businessspectator.com.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> The mine would be the first of a number of large mines proposed for the [[Galilee Basin]] and would facilitate their development. |
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Exports are to leave the country via port facilities at [[Hay Point]] and [[Abbot Point]] after being transported to the coast via rail.<ref name="ccmarp" /> The proposal includes a new 189 km rail line to connect with the existing [[Goonyella railway line]]. Most of the exported coal is planned to be shipped to India. |
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The mine has drawn significant controversy about its claimed economic benefits, its financial viability, plans for government subsidy and the environmental impacts. Broadly these have been described as its potential impact upon the [[Great Barrier Reef]], [[groundwater]] at its site and it [[carbon emissions]].<ref name="lcmia">{{Cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/jul/28/largest-coal-mine-in-australia-federal-government-gives-carmichael-go-ahead |title=Largest coal mine in Australia: federal government gives Carmichael go-ahead |author=Oliver Milman |accessdate=2 August 2014 |date=28 July 2014 |work=theguardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media }}</ref> The emissions from burning the expected coal produced from this one mine would be "approximately 0.53-0.56% of the carbon budget that remains after 2015 to have a likely chance of not exceeding 2 degrees warming."<ref name=":0" /> |
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==Location== |
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The mining lease mostly covers the Moray Downs cattle station.<ref name="milo">{{cite web |url=http://www.adanimining.com/Australia-Mine-location |title=Mine location |publisher=Adani Mining |accessdate=2 August 2014 }}</ref> The majority of the mine lies within the [[Isaac Region]], with a small portion in the [[Charters Towers Region]] local government area.<ref name="prov"/> Road access is made by the Gregory Developmental Road, an undeveloped section of the [[Gregory Highway]].<ref name="milo"/> |
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==History== |
==History== |
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The mine was announced in 2010, initially with a forecast mining duration of 90 years, which was later reduced to 60 years.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |url=http://www.adanimining.com/Common/Uploads/SEISDocuments/12_SEISDoc_Volume%202%20Mine%20Studies.pdf |title=Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project SEIS Volume 2 – Mine Studies |date=13 November 2013 |last=Adani|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303204155/http://www.adanimining.com/Common/Uploads/SEISDocuments/12_SEISDoc_Volume%202%20Mine%20Studies.pdf|archive-date = 3 March 2016|url-status = dead |df=dmy-all}}</ref> The federal government approved the project in July 2014. Associated works included new port terminals and seabed dredging at the [[Abbot Point]], and it was planned to dump the drudge on land.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Expanding the Port of Abbot Point |url=http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/major-projects/expanding-the-port-of-abbot-point.html |website=www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au |access-date=9 September 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919231015/http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/major-projects/expanding-the-port-of-abbot-point.html |archive-date=19 September 2015}}</ref> The coal was planned to be transported by rail (including the [[Goonyella railway line]]) to the ports at [[Hay Point]] and [[Abbot Point]].<ref name="ccmarp">{{cite web|title=Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project|url=http://www.adanimining.com/Australia-Carmichael-coal|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814155457/http://www.adanimining.com/Australia-Carmichael-coal|archive-date=14 August 2014|access-date=2 August 2014|publisher=Adani Mining}}</ref> |
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In 2010 the [[Queensland Premier]] [[Anna Bligh]] announced the Coordinator-General declared the proposed Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project was being assessed as a 'Significant Project'.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project declared ‘significant project’|url = http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/Id/72707|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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However, the approval was set aside in August 2015, when the [[Federal Court of Australia]] found that environment minister [[Greg Hunt]] did not correctly follow requirements under [[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999]] regarding the [[yakka skink]] and [[ornamental snake]] endangered species.<ref>{{Cite news |title=$16 billion Carmichael coal mine approval set aside over 'technical matter' |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-08-05/federal-court-overturns-approval-of-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine/6673734 |website=ABC News |date=5 August 2015 |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=25 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150825130300/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-08-05/federal-court-overturns-approval-of-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine/6673734 |url-status=live }}</ref> This led to considerable controversy and the project was re-approved in October 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2015-10-15|title=Adani Carmichael mine in Queensland gets another green light from Coalition|url=http://www.theguardian.com/business/2015/oct/15/adani-carmichael-mine-in-queensland-gets-another-green-light-from-coalition|access-date=2021-07-19|website=the Guardian|language=en|archive-date=21 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210721123627/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2015/oct/15/adani-carmichael-mine-in-queensland-gets-another-green-light-from-coalition|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Since then proposal has gone through many changes. The operational life was originally proposed for 150 years.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/resources/project/carmichael/initial-advice-statement.pdf|title = Adani Mining Pty Ltd - Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project - Initial Advice Statement, 22 October 2010|date = |accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = |first = }}</ref> This was later reduced to 90 years and is now proposed for 60 years.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url = http://www.adanimining.com/Common/Uploads/SEISDocuments/12_SEISDoc_Volume%202%20Mine%20Studies.pdf|title = Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project SEIS Volume 2 - Mine Studies|date = 13 November 2013|accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = Adani|first = }}</ref> |
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The mine was initially planned to produce 60 million tonnes of coal per year; however, funding difficulties resulted in downsizing the planned mine to produce 10 million tonnes per year.<ref name="prov" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=Carmichael Mine {{!}} Bravus Mining & Resources|url=https://www.bravus.com.au/carmichael-mine/|access-date=2021-10-10|website=Carmichael Mine {{!}} Bravus Mining & Resources|language=en|archive-date=25 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220325025450/https://www.bravus.com.au/carmichael-mine/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="nv">{{cite web |url=https://theconversation.com/adanis-new-mini-version-of-its-mega-mine-still-faces-some-big-hurdles-108038 |title=Adani's new mini version of its mega mine still faces some big hurdles |date=3 December 2018 |access-date=4 December 2018 |archive-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204022038/http://theconversation.com/adanis-new-mini-version-of-its-mega-mine-still-faces-some-big-hurdles-108038 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On 8 May 2014, Queensland’s Coordinator-General gave approval for the project to proceed.<ref name="cgd">{{cite web |url=http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2014/5/8/coordinatorgeneral-decides-on-galilee-mine |title=Coordinator-General decides on Galilee Mine |date=8 May 2014 |work=Media Statement |publisher=Department of the Premier and Cabinet |accessdate=2 August 2014 }}</ref> 190 conditions were set by the state during both construction and operations phases of the mine with particular attention paid to groundwater and water bores which may be potentially affected.<ref name="cgd" /> |
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In June 2019 Adani Australia commenced construction of the Carmichael mine.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Creagh|first=Ben|date=2019-06-20|title=Adani starts construction at Carmichael project|url=https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/adani-starts-construction-at-carmichael-project/|access-date=2020-09-10|website=Australian Mining|language=en-AU|archive-date=2 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200902201114/https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/adani-starts-construction-at-carmichael-project/|url-status=live}}</ref> The company aims to be starting commercial-scale coal mining by the end of 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Moore|first=Tony|date=2020-07-16|title=Adani on track for first Carmichael mine coal exports in 2021|url=https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/queensland/adani-on-track-for-first-carmichael-mine-coal-exports-in-2021-20200716-p55cnh.html|access-date=2020-09-10|website=Brisbane Times|language=en|archive-date=8 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220408161043/https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/queensland/adani-on-track-for-first-carmichael-mine-coal-exports-in-2021-20200716-p55cnh.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Mine approvals and construction were delayed by campaigns run by [[traditional owners]] and environmentalists, which included non-violent direct action at the construction site.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Paine |first=Andy |date=2022-10-26 |title=Frontline Action on Coal FLAC: Ten Years on the Climate Frontline |url=https://commonslibrary.org/frontline-action-on-coal-flac-ten-years-on-the-climate-frontline/ |access-date=2022-11-10 |website=The Commons Social Change Library |language=en-AU |archive-date=10 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221110031951/https://commonslibrary.org/frontline-action-on-coal-flac-ten-years-on-the-climate-frontline/ |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On the 29 July 2014, federal [[Minister for Environment (Australia)|Minister for Environment]], [[Greg Hunt]] gave approval for the mine to proceed. Federal approval was granted after 36 conditions were stipulated.<ref name="ccmmmj">{{Cite news |url=http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/news/carmichael-coal-mine-means-more-jobs-less-water-fo |title=Carmichael coal mine means more jobs, less water for Queensland. |author=Ben Hagemann |accessdate=2 August 2014 |date=29 July 2014 |work=Australian Mining |publisher=Cirrus Media }}</ref> |
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The thermal coal produced by the mine was predicted to consist of 11% ash and have a weighted average value of 5,000–5,500 kcal/kg.<ref>{{Cite journal|date=April 2019|title=Mineral Resources (Galilee Basin) Amendment Bill 2018|url=https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Documents/TableOffice/TabledPapers/2019/5619T567.pdf|journal=56th Parliament, State Development, Natural Resources and Agricultural Industry Development Committee|volume=Report No. 26|pages=7|access-date=24 September 2020|archive-date=23 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201223215947/https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Documents/TableOffice/TabledPapers/2019/5619T567.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Exporting coal from the Carmichael mines requires new terminals and seabed dredging at the [[Abbot Point|Abbot Point coal port]]. In early September 2014, it was reported the plan to dump dredge spoil in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park area had been scrapped.<ref name="apddp">{{Cite news |url=http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/news/abbott-point-dredge-dumping-plans-on-the-rocks |title=Abbott Point dredge dumping plans on the rocks |author= Ben Hagemann |accessdate=21 January 2015 |date=2 September 2014 |work=Mining Australia |publisher=Cirrus Media }}</ref><ref name="appd">{{Cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/sep/02/abbot-point-port-developers-ditch-great-barrier-reef-dumping |title=Abbot Point port developers to ditch Great Barrier Reef seabed dumping pla |author=Oliver Milman |accessdate=21 January 2015 |date=2 September 2014 |newspaper=The Guardian }}</ref> The plan to dump the spoil at sea was widely criticised on the grounds that the fragile coral and [[seagrass]] ecosystem could be damaged. Documents released under Freedom of Information showed [[Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority]] scientists had opposed the dumping plan.<ref name="appd"/> The [[Palaszczuk Ministry|Palaszczuk]] Queensland Government is now the development proponent for a proposal to dump dredge spoil on land within the terminal site.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Expanding the Port of Abbot Point|url = http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/major-projects/expanding-the-port-of-abbot-point.html|website = www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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In November 2020, Adani changed the name of its Australian subsidiary, which operates the mine, from Adani Mining to Bravus Mining & Resources.<ref>{{cite web |title=Adani Mining changes name to Bravus in Australia |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-05/adani-changes-name-to-barvus-mining-and-resources/12851592 |website=ABC News |access-date=2 September 2022 |language=en-AU |date=5 November 2020 |archive-date=26 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221226193234/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-05/adani-changes-name-to-barvus-mining-and-resources/12851592 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On 5 August 2015, the federal [[Department of the Environment (Australia)|Department of Environment]] and Adani signed consent orders in the Federal Court to set aside approval of the Carmichael project.<ref>{{Cite web|title = $16 billion Carmichael coal mine approval set aside over 'technical matter'|url = http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-08-05/federal-court-overturns-approval-of-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine/6673734|website = ABC News|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> The Department did not correctly follow requirements under [[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999|federal environment law]] to consider conservation advice regarding two endangered species affected by the proposal, the [[Yakka Skink]] and the [[Ornamental snake|Ornamental Snake]]. This lead to considerable controversy (see: Vigilante Lawfare). The Department is presently reconsidering the proposal.<ref name="Milman">{{Cite web|title = Coalition will take six to eight weeks to revise its Carmichael coalmine approval|url = http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/aug/05/coalition-will-take-six-to-eight-weeks-to-revise-its-carmichael-coalmine-approval|website = the Guardian|accessdate = 10 September 2015|first = Oliver|last = Milman|first2 = Joshua|last2 = Robertson}}</ref> |
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The company was the "jersey sleeve" sponsor of the North Queensland Cowboys [[National Rugby League|NRL]] rugby league team for the 2021 season.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-04|title=Adani's new mining brand to feature on Cowboys 2021 jersey|url=https://www.cowboys.com.au/news/2020/11/05/adanis-new-mining-brand-to-feature-on-cowboys-2021-jersey/|access-date=2021-06-23|website=North Queensland Cowboys|language=en|archive-date=5 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210605010811/https://www.cowboys.com.au/news/2020/11/05/adanis-new-mining-brand-to-feature-on-cowboys-2021-jersey/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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By mid August, Adani had ceased commercial relationships with a number of engineering contractors and banks.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Adani suspends two Australian coal project contractors: Report - Business Today|url = http://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/energy/adani-suspends-two-australian-mine-project-contractors-report/story/221953.html|website = www.businesstoday.in|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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On 29 December 2021, the first coal shipment from the Carmichael Mine was ready for export.<ref>{{Cite news|date=2021-12-29|title=Opponents fume as Adani celebrates first coal export from Carmichael Mine|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2021-12-29/adani-ships-first-coal/100729834|access-date=2022-02-07|archive-date=8 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230808074730/https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2021-12-29/adani-ships-first-coal/100729834|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Opponents fume as Adani celebrates first coal export from Carmichael Mine |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2021-12-29/adani-ships-first-coal/100729834 |website=ABC News |access-date=2 September 2022 |language=en-AU |date=29 December 2021 |archive-date=8 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230808074730/https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2021-12-29/adani-ships-first-coal/100729834 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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==Project size and operations== |
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==Location== |
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The mine is located in [[Central Queensland]], with the majority of the site being within the [[Isaac Region]] and a small portion being within the [[Charters Towers Region]].<ref name="prov"/><ref name="milo">{{cite web |url=http://www.adanimining.com/Australia-Mine-location |title=Mine location |publisher=Adani Mining |access-date=2 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814155455/http://www.adanimining.com/Australia-Mine-location |archive-date=14 August 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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The mine is planned to contain six open-cut pits and five underground mines.<ref name="prov">{{cite web |url=http://www.dsdip.qld.gov.au/assessments-and-approvals/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-project.html |title=Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project: Project Overview |date=9 July 2014 |work=Completed EIS projects |publisher=Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning |accessdate=2 August 2014 }}</ref> The surface disturbance area is {{convert|27892|ha|acre|0}}.<ref name=":5" /> The mine site covers an area of {{convert|44700|ha|acre|0}}, around {{convert|447|km2|sqmi|0}}, and is about {{convert|50|km|mi|0}} long.<ref>{{Cite web|title = adaniaustralia.com.au|url = http://www.adaniaustralia.com.au/pdf_details.php?pid=58|website = www.adaniaustralia.com.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> This is bigger than many capital cities. For example if the mine site are is placed over Paris, it covers the central area of the city and stretches to its outer edges.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title = Carmichael coal mine deeper in doubt as NAB, LG walk away|url = http://reneweconomy.com.au/2015/carmichael-coal-mine-deeper-in-doubt-as-nab-lg-walk-away-28540|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> [[File:Carmichael_mine_Paris.jpg|thumb|Carmichael coal mine, compared to Paris (Google Earth API)]] |
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The coal was formed as part of the [[Galilee Basin]], a 247,000 square kilometre inland region which includes aquifers that are a part of the [[Great Artesian Basin]] underground fresh water source.<ref name="Bio2014">{{Cite web |title=Galilee subregion {{!}} Bioregional Assessments |url=https://www.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/assessments/galilee-subregion |access-date=2023-01-20 |website=www.bioregionalassessments.gov.au |archive-date=20 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120103926/https://www.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/assessments/galilee-subregion |url-status=live }}</ref> Mining operations currently consist of small-scale barite, bentonite, calcite, gypsum; limestone, opals; phosphate and potassium mines; there is no history of coal mining of the basin.<ref name = myminesonline>MyMinesOnline Maps 3.6.0, Queensland Government, Latitude Geographics Group Ltd., 2015, viewed 21 November 2016, https://minesonlinemaps.business.qld.gov.au/SilverlightViewer/Viewer.html?Viewer=momapspublic {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306143029/https://minesonlinemaps.business.qld.gov.au/SilverlightViewer/Viewer.html?Viewer=momapspublic |date=6 March 2019 }}</ref> |
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Operations at the mine are expected to consume 12 billion litres of water each year.<ref name="ccmmmj" /> It is required to return only 6% of this water in the first five years.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://www.qrc.org.au/_dbase_upl/14-07-28%20Hunt-%20MR%20Carmichael%20Coal.pdf|title = Strictest conditions on Carmichael Coal Mine project|date = 28 July 2014|accessdate = |website = |publisher = Minister for the Environment|last = Hunt|first = Greg}}</ref> The mine will take a total of 297 billion litres of water from underground aquifers.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.adanimining.com/Common/Uploads/SEISDocuments/80_SEISDoc_Appendix%20K2%20-%20Water%20Balance%20Report.pdf|title = Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project SEIS- Report for Water Balance|date = 22 October 2013|accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = Adani|first = }}</ref> |
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== Mine and associated facilities == |
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The [[Carmichael River]] runs through the middle of the mine site. Bridges and flood levees must be built before the Southern mines are constructed.<ref>{{Cite web|title = adaniaustralia.com.au|url = http://www.adaniaustralia.com.au/pdf_details.php?pid=63|website = www.adaniaustralia.com.au|accessdate =9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The mine is intended to be an [[Open-pit mining|open-cut mine]] (compared with earlier designs which also included underground mines)<ref name="prov">{{cite web |url=http://www.dsdip.qld.gov.au/assessments-and-approvals/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-project.html |title=Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project: Project Overview |date=9 July 2014 |work=Completed EIS projects |publisher=Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning |access-date=2 August 2014 |archive-date=18 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318145219/http://dsdip.qld.gov.au/assessments-and-approvals/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-project.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> with {{convert|279|km2|sqmi|0|abbr=on}} of land being excavated.<ref name=":5" /> The total area of the mine site is planned to be {{convert|447|km2|sqmi|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=adaniaustralia.com.au |url=http://www.adaniaustralia.com.au/pdf_details.php?pid=58 |website=www.adaniaustralia.com.au |access-date=9 September 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150923140917/http://www.adaniaustralia.com.au/pdf_details.php?pid=58|archive-date = 23 September 2015|url-status = dead}}</ref>{{third party inline|date=October 2021}}{{needs update|date=December 2023}} |
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In the Queensland Land and Environment Court, Adani said it expects the mine to produce 2.3 billion tonnes of coal over 60 years.<ref name=":0" /> This implies average production of around 40 million tonnes a year. This would be enough coal to make a road of coal 10 metres wide, one metre deep and 200,000 kilometres long. Such a road could stretch around the world five times.<ref name=":1" /> According to the current Environmental Impact Statement, the Carmichael mine would produce 60 million tonnes of coal per year (at peak capacity) over 60 years, or around 3.5 billion tonnes.<ref name=":5" /> |
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The original plan included a new {{convert|388|km|mi}} long [[standard-gauge railway]],<ref>{{Cite news |title=Adani, POSCO E&C sign pact to develop rail line in Australia |newspaper=Business Standard India |date=18 July 2014 |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/adani-posco-e-c-sign-pact-to-develop-rail-line-in-australia-114071800626_1.html |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=2 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160202212859/http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/adani-posco-e-c-sign-pact-to-develop-rail-line-in-australia-114071800626_1.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="rg 0918">{{cite web|date=14 September 2018|title=Adani scales back Carmichael rail link plans|url=https://www.railwaygazette.com/news/freight/single-view/view/adani-scales-back-carmichael-rail-link-plans.html|access-date=15 September 2018|publisher=Railway Gazette International|archive-date=15 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915084548/https://www.railwaygazette.com/news/freight/single-view/view/adani-scales-back-carmichael-rail-link-plans.html|url-status=live}}</ref> which was proposed to be paid for by taxpayers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://iminco.net/5-billion-northern-australia-infrastructure-facility-cash-for-mines/ |title=$5 Billion Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility Cash For Mines |date=28 September 2015 |access-date=28 October 2017 |archive-date=5 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160505191523/http://iminco.net/5-billion-northern-australia-infrastructure-facility-cash-for-mines/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="guardian rail">{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2018/feb/09/setback-for-adani-as-aurizon-withdraws-loan-request-for-rail-line |title=Setback for Adani as Aurizon withdraws loan request for rail line |work=The Guardian |date=8 February 2018 |access-date=15 September 2018 |archive-date=15 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915121901/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2018/feb/09/setback-for-adani-as-aurizon-withdraws-loan-request-for-rail-line |url-status=live }}</ref> In September 2018, Adani announced that it had abandoned plans to build the standard-gauge line in favour of a {{convert|200|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} extension to a nearby existing [[narrow-gauge railway]]. This railway is planned to connect the mine to the maritime freight terminal at Abbot Point<ref>{{Cite web|last=Haselgrove|first=Salomae|date=2020-06-05|title=BMD wins largest Adani Carmichael contract yet|url=https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/bmd-wins-largest-adani-carmichael-contract-yet/|access-date=2021-06-15|website=Australian Mining|language=en-AU|archive-date=16 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616043202/https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/bmd-wins-largest-adani-carmichael-contract-yet/|url-status=live}}</ref> and construction began in mid-2020.<ref>{{Cite web|title=BMD wins civil construction contract for Carmichael Rail Network from Adani Australia - World Construction Network|url=https://www.worldconstructionnetwork.com/news/bmd-wins-civil-construction-contract-for-carmichael-rail-network-from-adani-australia/|access-date=2021-06-23|website=www.worldconstructionnetwork.com|date=3 June 2020|archive-date=2 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210802174447/https://www.worldconstructionnetwork.com/news/bmd-wins-civil-construction-contract-for-carmichael-rail-network-from-adani-australia|url-status=live}}</ref>{{update inline|date=September 2022}} Construction of the approximately 200km Carmichael Rail Network was completed in September 2021.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.martinusrail.com.au/projects/carmichael-rail-network-civil-works/ | title=Carmichael Rail Network - Civil works | Martinus Rail | access-date=9 February 2023 | archive-date=9 February 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230209034026/https://www.martinusrail.com.au/projects/carmichael-rail-network-civil-works/ | url-status=live }}</ref>{{better source needed|reason=this is a primary source|date=December 2023}} |
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=== Rail line === |
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A new rail line is needed to transport coal to port facilities. The Carmichael proposal includes a 189 km rail line to join the existing [[Goonyella railway line]] at [[Moranbah, Queensland|Moranbah]].<ref name="prov"/> |
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In January 2020, in response to protests in [[Berlin]] by [[Extinction Rebellion]], [[Siemens]] announced it would re-evaluate its $20m contract to supply signalling systems for the rail link,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/climate-activists-target-siemens-over-australia-coal-project/2020/01/10/2d3e17a2-338e-11ea-971b-43bec3ff9860_story.html |title=Climate activists target Siemens over Australia coal project |agency=Associated Press |date=10 January 2020 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |language=en |access-date=11 January 2020 |archive-date=10 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200110150020/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/climate-activists-target-siemens-over-australia-coal-project/2020/01/10/2d3e17a2-338e-11ea-971b-43bec3ff9860_story.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> but decided to continue with the contract saying there was "practically no legally and economically responsible way to unwind the contract without neglecting fiduciary duties."<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/germanys-siemens-to-fulfill-australia-coal-mine-contract/2020/01/13/685709f8-35d6-11ea-a1ff-c48c1d59a4a1_story.html |title=Germany's Siemens to fulfill Australia coal mine contract |agency=Associated Press |date=13 January 2020 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |language=en |access-date=14 January 2020 |archive-date=14 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200114042843/https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/germanys-siemens-to-fulfill-australia-coal-mine-contract/2020/01/13/685709f8-35d6-11ea-a1ff-c48c1d59a4a1_story.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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Adani has signed an agreement with South Korean construction company [[POSCO]] to develop the [[North Galilee Basin Rail Project]].<ref>{{Cite web|title = Adani, POSCO E&C sign pact to develop rail line in Australia|url = http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/adani-posco-e-c-sign-pact-to-develop-rail-line-in-australia-114071800626_1.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> This 310 km rail line would provide capacity of 100 million tonnes of coal per year, increasing access to the Galilee Basin.<ref>{{Cite web|title = North Galilee Basin Rail Project|url = http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/assessments-and-approvals/north-galilee-basin-rail-project.html|website = www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The [[fly-in fly-out]] (FIFO) workers for the mine during the construction phase were based in the regional cities of [[Rockhampton]] and [[Townsville]].<ref name="ABC">{{Cite news |last=Chen |first=David |date=5 October 2017 |title=Carmichael mine FIFO workforce to come from Townsville, Rockhampton |language=en-AU |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-05/adani-carmichael-mine-fifo-workforce-townsville-rockhampton/9017610 |access-date=2 February 2020 |archive-date=10 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201110155224/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-05/adani-carmichael-mine-fifo-workforce-townsville-rockhampton/9017610 |url-status=live }}[https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-05/adani-carmichael-mine-fifo-workforce-townsville-rockhampton/9017610] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201110155224/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-05/adani-carmichael-mine-fifo-workforce-townsville-rockhampton/9017610 |date=10 November 2020 }}</ref> A new [[airstrip]] close to the mine was proposed to be constructed, at a cost to taxpayers of $31 million<ref name="TheGuardian">{{Cite news |last=Robertson |first=Joshua |date=19 October 2017 |title=Queensland councils to pay at least $31m for Adani coalmine airstrip |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2017/oct/20/adani-coalmine-queensland-councils-to-pay-at-least-31m-for-airstrip |access-date=2 February 2020 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=12 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112095608/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2017/oct/20/adani-coalmine-queensland-councils-to-pay-at-least-31m-for-airstrip |url-status=live }}[https://www.theguardian.com/business/2017/oct/20/adani-coalmine-queensland-councils-to-pay-at-least-31m-for-airstrip] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112095608/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2017/oct/20/adani-coalmine-queensland-councils-to-pay-at-least-31m-for-airstrip |date=12 January 2020 }}</ref> to $34 million.<ref name="TheGuardian2">{{Cite news |last=McGowan |first=Michael |date=17 January 2018 |title=Queensland councils say they won't own Adani airport despite paying $34m |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2018/jan/17/queensland-councils-say-they-wont-own-adani-airport-despite-paying-34m |access-date=2 February 2020 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=12 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112095608/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2018/jan/17/queensland-councils-say-they-wont-own-adani-airport-despite-paying-34m |url-status=live }}[https://www.theguardian.com/business/2018/jan/17/queensland-councils-say-they-wont-own-adani-airport-despite-paying-34m] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112095608/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2018/jan/17/queensland-councils-say-they-wont-own-adani-airport-despite-paying-34m |date=12 January 2020 }}</ref> Following public criticisms and the project delays, government funding for the proposed airstrip was cancelled<ref>{{Cite news |date=16 June 2018 |title=$18.5 million proposed for Carmichael Airstrip will be used for shovel ready projects |language=en-AU |publisher=Townsville City Council |url=https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/about-council/news-and-publications/media-releases/2018/june/18.5-million-proposed-for-carmichael-airstrip-will-be-used-for-shovel-ready-projects |access-date=2 February 2020 |archive-date=12 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112095610/https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/about-council/news-and-publications/media-releases/2018/june/18.5-million-proposed-for-carmichael-airstrip-will-be-used-for-shovel-ready-projects |url-status=live }}[https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/about-council/news-and-publications/media-releases/2018/june/18.5-million-proposed-for-carmichael-airstrip-will-be-used-for-shovel-ready-projects] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112095610/https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/about-council/news-and-publications/media-releases/2018/june/18.5-million-proposed-for-carmichael-airstrip-will-be-used-for-shovel-ready-projects |date=12 January 2020 }}</ref> and the airstrip was paid for by Adani. Flights to the airstrip began in June 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Plane|first=Melanie|title=First Look: Rocky FIFO begins as Adani airstrip complete|url=https://www.cqnews.com.au/news/rocky-fifo-begins-as-adani-airstrip-complete/4030921/|access-date=2021-04-21|website=CQ News|language=en|archive-date=21 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421002704/https://www.cqnews.com.au/news/rocky-fifo-begins-as-adani-airstrip-complete/4030921/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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===Port expansion=== |
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The mine requires a significant expansion of port facilities. [[Deutsche Bank]] and [[HSBC]] declined to fund the Abbott Point port expansion due to environmental concerns affecting their reputation.<ref name="ccmmmj"/> |
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The subcontract for the construction of a {{cvt|189|km}} railway line to the mine was signed in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project {{!}} State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning|url=https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/coordinator-general/assessments-and-approvals/coordinated-projects/completed-projects/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-project|access-date=2021-10-10|website=www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au|date=12 November 2020|archive-date=11 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011000030/https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/coordinator-general/assessments-and-approvals/coordinated-projects/completed-projects/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-project|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-04-22|title=Martinus wins another Carmichael rail contract with Adani Australia|url=https://im-mining.com/2020/04/22/martinus-wins-another-carmichael-rail-contract-adani-australia/|access-date=2021-06-15|website=International Mining|language=en-GB|archive-date=16 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616043330/https://im-mining.com/2020/04/22/martinus-wins-another-carmichael-rail-contract-adani-australia/|url-status=live}}</ref> The company stated that it had approximately 2000 employees in November 2020<ref>{{Cite web|last=Zakharia|first=Nickolas|date=2020-11-26|title=Carmichael coal production 'one step closer': Bravus|url=https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/carmichael-coal-production-one-step-closer-bravus/|access-date=2021-06-15|website=Australian Mining|language=en-AU|archive-date=28 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728111426/https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/carmichael-coal-production-one-step-closer-bravus/|url-status=live}}</ref> and approximately 2600 employees in June 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|date=June 25, 2021|title=Adani Group strikes coal at Australia's Charmichael project|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/adani-group-strikes-coal-at-australias-charmichael-project/articleshow/83828952.cms|access-date=2021-06-29|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=26 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210626000248/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/adani-group-strikes-coal-at-australias-charmichael-project/articleshow/83828952.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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== Jobs and economic benefits == |
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Announcing the federal approval for the project, Environment Minister [[Greg Hunt]] stated it would contribute $930 million to the [[Mackay, Queensland|Mackay]] region’s GDP and $2.97 billion to the Queensland economy each year for the next 60 years.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|title = Carmichael coal mine means more jobs, less water for Queensland.|url = http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/News/Carmichael-coal-mine-means-more-jobs-less-water-fo|website = Mining Australia|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The Bravus subsidiary Bowen Rail Company operates the coal trains on the Carmichael Rail Network.<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 July 2023 |title=Carmichael delivers first 10 million tonnes |url=https://www.australianresourcesandinvestment.com.au/2023/07/31/carmichael-delivers-first-10-million-tonnes/ |access-date=13 December 2023 |website=Australian Resources & Investment |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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Hunt claimed the 4 billion tonnes of coal resource extracted over its lifetime would be worth $300 billion.<ref name=":3" /> In court, Adani said the lifetime output of the mine would be 2.3 billion tonnes of coal.<ref name=":0" /> |
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== Environmental impacts == |
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=== Greenhouse gas emissions === |
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Adani claims the mine will create 10,000 jobs.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Complaint lodged with ASX over Adani job claims for Carmichael mine|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/complaint-lodged-with-asx-over-adani-job-claims-for-carmichael-mine-20150513-gh0tbl.html#ixzz3keNe5mWS|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> The company took out a television advertisment during the 2015 Queensland election including this claim.<ref>{{Citation|url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLlPwFUdR0w|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Prime Minister Tony Abbott cites the 10,000 jobs figure as evidence "this mine is good for the country".<ref>{{Cite web|title = PM:Stopping Adani mine 'bad for the country'|url = http://www.skynews.com.au/news/top-stories/2015/08/08/pm-stopping-adani-mine--bad-for-the-country-.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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According to the [[environmental impact statement]], the mine was expected to produce 200 million tonnes of [[carbon dioxide]], based on a 60-year lifespan.<ref name="fca">{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/jan/14/federal-court-asked-to-overturn-adani-mine-approval-impact-great-barrier-reef |title=Federal court asked to overturn Adani mine approval due to impact on Great Barrier Reef |author=Lenore Taylor |access-date=21 January 2015 |date=14 January 2015 |newspaper=[[TheGuardian.com]] |archive-date=23 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150123043356/http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/jan/14/federal-court-asked-to-overturn-adani-mine-approval-impact-great-barrier-reef |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In April 2019, [[Bob Brown]] led a convoy of vehicles to protest against the proposed coal mine. The protest was criticised by pro-coal lobby groups and is considered a factor in the Queensland voters' swing away from progressive parties in the [[2019 Australian federal election]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-19|title=Election 2019: How Bob Brown and his anti-Adani convoy green-anted Labor in Queensland|url=https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/election-2019/2019/05/19/election-2019-how-bob-brown-and-his-anti-adani-convoy-green-anted-labor-in-queensland/|access-date=2021-06-09|website=The New Daily|language=en-US|archive-date=9 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609225153/https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/election-2019/2019/05/19/election-2019-how-bob-brown-and-his-anti-adani-convoy-green-anted-labor-in-queensland/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Queensland Mining and Energy Bulletin (April 2019): [https://www.qmeb.com.au/industry-slams-hypocrisy-of-anti-mining-convoy/ ''Industry slams ‘hypocrisy’ of anti mining convoy''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190722215833/https://www.qmeb.com.au/industry-slams-hypocrisy-of-anti-mining-convoy/ |date=22 July 2019 }}</ref> |
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In Queensland's Land Court Adani’s expert witness, economist [[Jerome Fahrer]] from [[ACIL Allen]] consulting, rejected the 10,000 figure, saying the project would create less than 1,500 jobs.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Adani Carmichael mine to create 1464 jobs, not 10,000|url = http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/adani-carmichael-mine-to-create-1464-jobs-not-10000-20150427-1mumbg.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Fahrer described the method used to produce the 10,000 figure as 'deficient'.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Fact check: Will Adani’s coal mine really boost employment by 10,000 jobs?|url = http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2015/8/31/policy-politics/fact-check-will-adanis-coal-mine-really-boost-employment-10000|website = www.businessspectator.com.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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[[Greta Thunberg]] drew international attention to the mine in January 2020, when she called on large German-based industrial corporation [[Siemens|Siemens AG]] (which claimed to be one of the first companies to have pledged to be carbon neutral by 2030) to stop the delivery of railway equipment for the mine.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.faz.net/1.6576039 |title=Bau Australien: Greta Thunberg fordert Siemens zur Aufgabe von Kohle-Projekt auf |journal=Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung |access-date=12 January 2020 |language=de |issn=0174-4909 |archive-date=12 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210312072906/https://www.faz.net/aktuell/wirtschaft/klima-energie-und-umwelt/greta-thunberg-fordert-siemens-zur-aufgabe-von-kohle-projekt-in-australien-auf-16576039.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Siemens responded that it "should have been wiser about this project beforehand", but declined to cancel the contract.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/jan/13/adani-coalmine-siemens-ceo-has-empathy-for-environment-but-will-honour-contract |title=Adani coalmine: Siemens CEO has 'empathy' for environment but refuses to quit contract |last=Readfearn |first=Graham |date=13 January 2020 |work=The Guardian |access-date=13 January 2020 |issn=0261-3077 |archive-date=13 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200113111747/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/jan/13/adani-coalmine-siemens-ceo-has-empathy-for-environment-but-will-honour-contract |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In May 2015 a complaint was lodged with the [[Australian Securities Exchange]] alleging Adani was providing misleading information about the project.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Complaint lodged with ASX over Adani job claims for Carmichael mine|url = http://article.wn.com/view/2015/05/13/Complaint_lodged_with_ASX_over_Adani_job_claims_for_Carmicha_8/|website = World News|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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=== Water – rivers and underground sources === |
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== Financing == |
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Adani had initially planned to use 12,500 megalitres per year from the [[Belyando River]] for the Carmichael coal mine.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.adanimining.com/Common/Uploads/SEISDocuments/39_SEISDoc_Appendix%20C4e%20-%20Application%20to%20take%20water%20from%20the%20Belyando%20River.pdf |title=SEIS Appendix 20 – Application to take water from the Belyando River |last=Adani|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160304142308/http://www.adanimining.com/Common/Uploads/SEISDocuments/39_SEISDoc_Appendix%20C4e%20-%20Application%20to%20take%20water%20from%20the%20Belyando%20River.pdf|archive-date =4 March 2016|url-status =dead |df=dmy-all}}</ref> Regarding the reduction on the local water table, the company's Supplementary Environmental Impact Statement stated that "maximum impacts in excess of 300 metres are predicted". Beyond the mine boundary, Adani's groundwater model predicted water table levels to drop "typically between 20 and 50m" and "up to around 4m in the vicinity of the [Carmichael] river".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Supplementary EIS Documents |url=http://www.adanimining.com/seis-pdfdocs-details/50/154|archive-url = https://archive.today/20151020162014/http://www.adanimining.com/seis-pdfdocs-details/50/154|url-status = dead|archive-date = 20 October 2015 |website=www.adanimining.com |access-date=10 September 2015}}</ref> During a hearing in the QLD Land Court, Adani's representatives defended predictions drawn from drilling data, despite allegations of this being insufficient to determine risks of collapses underground that could impact groundwater systems.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Groundwater dominates discussion at Adani court case |url=http://www.frasercoastchronicle.com.au/news/groundwater-dominates-discussion-adani-court-case/2601119/ |access-date=10 September 2015 |archive-date=7 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150807094449/http://www.frasercoastchronicle.com.au/news/groundwater-dominates-discussion-adani-court-case/2601119/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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=== Endangered species === |
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The mine site area is home to a number of species, including the [[yakka skink]], [[ornamental snake]], and the [[Livistona australis|waxy cabbage palm]]. The mine site is home to the largest known community of [[black throated finch]]es,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Environment – Queensland's Galilee Basin |url=http://galileebasin.org/the-issues/environment/ |access-date=10 September 2015 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304041440/http://galileebasin.org/the-issues/environment/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the operation of the mine is subject to a ''Black-Throated Finch Management Plan''.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-05-31|title=Black-Throated Finch Management Plan approved|url=https://www.des.qld.gov.au/our-department/news-media/mediareleases/2019/2019-05-31-black-throated-finch-mp-approved|access-date=2021-06-09|website=Department of Environment and Science, Queensland|language=en-AU|archive-date=9 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609233706/https://www.des.qld.gov.au/our-department/news-media/mediareleases/2019/2019-05-31-black-throated-finch-mp-approved|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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The Government-owned State Bank of India has signed a MOU with Adani that it will offer a $1 billion loan to the project. It was widely reported that the Bank had withdrawn this offer.<ref>{{Cite web|title = SBI to turn down Adani's $1 billion Australian loan request - sources|url = http://in.reuters.com/article/2015/03/13/india-adani-sbi-idINKBN0M914T20150313|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> This was rejected by the bank’s Chairman.<ref>{{Cite web|title = SBI rejects report of scrapping $1 bn loan pact with Adani|url = http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/sbi-rejects-reportscrapping361-bn-loan-pactadani_1329059.html|website = www.moneycontrol.com|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The finches' population is in decline, and the southern subspecies is threatened, having vanished from 80% of its former range.<ref name="recoveryplan">{{cite web |url=http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/f164f090-6c72-4e29-a91b-0037b82f4250/files/p-cincta.pdf |title=National recovery plan for the Black-throated finch southern subspecies (''Poephila cincta cincta'') |access-date=25 February 2019 |work=Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts – website |publisher=Australian Government: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts |archive-date=3 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190303154328/http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/f164f090-6c72-4e29-a91b-0037b82f4250/files/p-cincta.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> Adani Australia produced a management plan for the finch,<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-06-24|title=Adani carves out conservation area for endangered finch|url=https://inqld.com.au/business/2020/06/24/adani-carves-out-conservation-area-for-endangered-black-throated-finch/|access-date=2021-07-27|website=InQueensland|language=en|archive-date=27 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210727233233/https://inqld.com.au/business/2020/06/24/adani-carves-out-conservation-area-for-endangered-black-throated-finch/|url-status=live}}</ref> proposing to gradually clear land around the mine and force the finches to move away.<ref>{{cite web |title=Black-throated Finch Management Plan C |url=https://www.adaniaustralia.com/-/media/ADI0027_Black-throated-Finch_v11_WEB.pdf |date=November 2018 |access-date=25 February 2019 |publisher=Adani Mining |archive-date=5 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201105111910/https://www.adaniaustralia.com/-/media/ADI0027_Black-throated-Finch_v11_WEB.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> The plan was heavily criticised by some ecologists, who highlighted the plan to graze cattle on protected land and noted the land was tagged to be used for other projects.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Smee |first1=Ben |title=Adani: 2,000 hectares of black-throated finch habitat removed from conservation plans |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2019/jan/22/adani-2000-hectares-black-throated-finch-habitat-removed-from-conservation-plans |access-date=25 February 2019 |work=Guardian Online |date=22 January 2019 |archive-date=24 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190224115200/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2019/jan/22/adani-2000-hectares-black-throated-finch-habitat-removed-from-conservation-plans |url-status=live }}</ref> There was also a lack of transparency and consultation with experts in the field.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rebgetz |first1=Louisa |title=Adani mine 'spinning the roulette wheel' on survival of black-throated finch, researchers say |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-07-14/adani-carmichael-mine-threats-to-black-throated-finch/8707086 |access-date=25 February 2019 |work=ABC News |date=14 July 2017 |archive-date=21 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190421162019/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-07-14/adani-carmichael-mine-threats-to-black-throated-finch/8707086 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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=== Major international banks rule out funding === |
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A number of major international banks have publicly ruled out financing the Carmichael Mine and Rail Project, or the [[Abbot Point|Abbot Point Coal Terminal]] on which the Carmichael project depends. This includes more than half of the top 20 coal financing banks globally.<ref>{{Cite news|url = http://www.couriermail.com.au/business/eleven-international-banks-rule-out-funding-adanis-galilee-coal-project/story-fnihsps3-1227297521886|title = Eleven International Banks Rule Out Funding Adani's Coal Project|last = |first = |date = 2015|work = |access-date = |via = Courier Mail}}</ref> Banks currently ruling out funding include: [[Citigroup]]; [[JP Morgan Chase]]; [[Goldman Sachs]]; [[Deutsche Bank]]; [[Royal Bank of Scotland]]; [[HSBC]]; [[Barclays Investment Bank|Barclays]]; [[BNP Paribas]]; [[Credit Agrilcole]]; [[Société Générale|Societe Generale]]; [[National Australia Bank]]. |
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===Environmental activism: Stop Adani=== |
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Adani spokespeople have said statements from banks they have not approached have “no bearing” on the project.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Three French banks refuse to fund Adani project in Australia - The Times of India|url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Three-French-banks-refuse-to-fund-Adani-project-in-Australia/articleshow/46864359.cms|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The mine drawn criticism for its environmental impacts on the [[Great Barrier Reef]], water usage, and [[carbon emissions]].<ref name="lcmia">{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/jul/28/largest-coal-mine-in-australia-federal-government-gives-carmichael-go-ahead |title=Largest coal mine in Australia: federal government gives Carmichael go-ahead |author=Oliver Milman |access-date=2 August 2014 |date=28 July 2014 |work=[[The Guardian]] |publisher=Guardian News and Media |archive-date=29 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140729120833/http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/jul/28/largest-coal-mine-in-australia-federal-government-gives-carmichael-go-ahead |url-status=live }}</ref> Since approval for the mine was given by the government in 2014, campaigners have opposed the project with hundreds of rallies and other actions targeting 145 companies, as part of a campaign known as [[Stop Adani]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gulliver |first=Robyn |date=2022-10-11 |title=Australian Campaign Case Study: Stop Adani, 2012 - 2022 |url=https://commonslibrary.org/australian-campaign-case-study-stop-adani-2012-2022/ |access-date=2022-11-10 |website=The Commons Social Change Library |language=en-AU |archive-date=10 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221110031949/https://commonslibrary.org/australian-campaign-case-study-stop-adani-2012-2022/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=How a 3 year campaign moved Westpac to rule out new coal basins | website=Stop Adani | date=1 August 2018 | url=https://www.stopadani.com/how_a_3_year_campaign_moved_westpac | access-date=29 May 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=An incredible moment for the #StopAdani campaign. | via=Free Online Library | date=2017 |author=[[Australian Conservation Foundation]] | url=https://www.thefreelibrary.com/An+incredible+moment+for+the+%23StopAdani+campaign-a0510482303 | access-date=29 May 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2017-04-28|title=Big four banks distance themselves from Adani coalmine as Westpac rules out loan|url=http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2017/apr/28/big-four-banks-all-refuse-to-fund-adani-coalmine-after-westpac-rules-out-loan|access-date=2021-07-10|website=[[The Guardian]]|language=en}}</ref> |
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== Financial issues == |
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[[Standard Chartered]] was previously involved in providing financing to the project. Adani has ended the bank’s advisory contract.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Standard Chartered backs off Adani coal mining project|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/standard-chartered-backs-off-adani-coal-mining-project-20150810-giw4ft.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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In 2015, a number of major international banks publicly ruled out financing the coal mine, railway line or shipping terminal. This included more than half of the top 20 coal financing banks globally,<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.couriermail.com.au/business/eleven-international-banks-rule-out-funding-adanis-galilee-coal-project/story-fnihsps3-1227297521886 |title=Eleven International Banks Rule Out Funding Adani's Coal Project |date=2015 |via=Courier Mail}}</ref> such as Citigroup, JP Morgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, Royal Bank of Scotland, HSBC, Barclays, Credit Agricole and Société Générale. [[Standard Chartered]] provided financing to the project, but Adani ended the bank's advisory contract.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Standard Chartered backs off Adani coal mining project |date=11 August 2015 |url=http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/standard-chartered-backs-off-adani-coal-mining-project-20150810-giw4ft.html |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=13 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150813013545/http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/standard-chartered-backs-off-adani-coal-mining-project-20150810-giw4ft.html |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Large coal projects in Australia typically engage with one or more of the [[Banking in Australia|"big four" Australian banks]] in arranging or providing debt. However, [[National Australia Bank]] announced in September 2015 that it would not fund the project,<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/national-australia-bank-rules-out-funding-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine-20150902-gjdsfl.html |title=National Australia Bank rules out funding Adani's Carmichael coal mine |last1=Saunders |first1=Amanda |date=3 September 2015 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |access-date=15 August 2017 |last2=Potter |first2=Ben |language=en-US |archive-date=3 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170803085031/http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/national-australia-bank-rules-out-funding-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine-20150902-gjdsfl.html |url-status=live }}</ref> followed by [[Westpac]] in April 2015 and [[Australia & New Zealand Banking Group|ANZ Bank]] in August 2017.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.afr.com/business/mining/westpac-rules-out-adani-carmichael-coal-loan-20170428-gvuhp8 |title=Westpac has ruled out lending to Adani's Carmichael coal mine after changing lending policies |date=28 April 2017 |work=[[Australian Financial Review]] |access-date=15 August 2017 |language=en-US |archive-date=15 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170815135337/http://www.afr.com/business/mining/westpac-rules-out-adani-carmichael-coal-loan-20170428-gvuhp8 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":7">{{Cite web |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/financial-services/anz-effectively-rules-out-funding-adanis-carmichael-coalmine/news-story/59b2a756082a5cd2c61cf9959debff95 |title=ANZ effectively rules out funding Adani's Carmichael coalmine |access-date=15 August 2017}}</ref> |
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=== Australian banks === |
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On 5 August 2015, [[Commonwealth Bank]] announced that its advisory contract with Adani had ended.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Adani and Commonwealth Bank part ways, casting further doubt on Carmichael coal project|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/adani-and-commonwealth-bank-part-ways-casting-further-doubt-on-carmichael-coal-project-20150805-gisd1l.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> On 3 September 2015, [[National Australia Bank]] announced it would not fund the project.<ref>{{Cite web|title = National Australia Bank rules out funding Adani's Carmichael coal mine|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/national-australia-bank-rules-out-funding-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine-20150902-gjdsfl.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Large coal projects in Australia typically one and often more of the [[Banking in Australia|‘big four’ Australian banks]], either in arranging or providing debt. The remaining two -- [[Westpac]] and [[Australia and New Zealand Banking Group|ANZ]]—have not commented. |
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Before the mine's construction, some analysts doubted the mine was viable given the price of coal at the time. In November 2014, one analyst predicted that a price of about $100–$110 a tonne was required for the project be financially viable.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Adani steps up Australia coal plans ahead of Modi visit |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/adani-ent-australia-coal-idUSL3N0T126820141112 |newspaper=Reuters |date=12 November 2014 |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=18 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018004918/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/11/12/adani-ent-australia-coal-idUSL3N0T126820141112 |url-status=live }}</ref> The price of coal fluctuated significantly over following years; from US$60/t in 2015, then US$115/t in 2018 and US$170/t in May 2021.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Bloomberg - Record coal prices|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-06-09/sky-high-coal-prices-won-t-spur-new-mines-in-a-greener-world|access-date=2021-06-22|newspaper=Bloomberg|date=9 June 2021|archive-date=12 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210612043144/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-06-09/sky-high-coal-prices-won-t-spur-new-mines-in-a-greener-world|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Australia Coal Price|url=https://ycharts.com/indicators/australia_coal_price|access-date=2021-05-17|website=ycharts.com|archive-date=17 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517061656/https://ycharts.com/indicators/australia_coal_price|url-status=live}}</ref> The company claims that it has agreements in place to sell 10 million tonnes of coal from the mine.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-17|title='It's happening': digging begins at Adani's $2b Carmichael mine|url=https://www.afr.com/companies/energy/it-s-happening-digging-begins-at-adani-s-2b-carmichael-mine-20200917-p55wgd|access-date=2021-06-03|website=Australian Financial Review|language=en|url-access=subscription|archive-date=3 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603012132/https://www.afr.com/companies/energy/it-s-happening-digging-begins-at-adani-s-2b-carmichael-mine-20200917-p55wgd|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==== Bank Divestment campaigns ==== |
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== Taxpayer funding == |
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Environment groups have pursued campaigns to pressure banks to rule out funding the project. Some have encouraged customers to switch bank accounts and mortgages away from the large banks funding coal projects.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.marketforces.org.au/banks/on-notice-emails/|title = Put your bank on notice|date = |accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = Market Forces|first = }}</ref> |
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In 2014, the Queensland [[Liberal National Party of Queensland|Liberal National Party]] state government proposed reduced taxes for the project in the form of an open-ended [[royalty rate]] "holiday",<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hey, big spender: why Campbell Newman loves his election hard-hat |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/jan/09/queensland-election-2015-campbell-newman-spending-promises |website=the Guardian |access-date=9 September 2015 |first=Lenore |last=Taylor |date=9 January 2015 |archive-date=21 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150821103636/http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/jan/09/queensland-election-2015-campbell-newman-spending-promises |url-status=live }}</ref> and for taxpayers to pay for the sediment dumping facility in the Caley Valley wetlands.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Gautam Adani says Queensland to co-invest in Australia project, govt defends SBI loan – Firstpost |date=25 November 2014 |url=http://www.firstpost.com/business/corporate-business/gautam-adani-says-queensland-to-co-invest-in-australia-project-govt-defends-sbi-loan-1997241.html |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=31 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231170938/http://www.firstpost.com/business/corporate-business/gautam-adani-says-queensland-to-co-invest-in-australia-project-govt-defends-sbi-loan-1997241.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The Labor opposition criticised the secrecy surrounding the costs and suggested that up to $1.08 billion of public money would be required.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rail line deal could cost taxpayers $1 billion-plus " Curtis Pitt MP ::: State Member for Mulgrave |url=http://www.curtispitt.com.au/2014/11/19/rail-line-deal-could-cost-taxpayers-1-billion-plus/ |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=29 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160229222743/http://www.curtispitt.com.au/2014/11/19/rail-line-deal-could-cost-taxpayers-1-billion-plus/ |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Following the Queensland [[Australian Labor Party (Queensland Branch)|Labor Party]]'s victory in the 2015 state election, the Labor party vowed to not use state funds for the railway line,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Adani underlines commitment to Galilee Basin coal mine plans |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-01-21/adani-underlines-commitment-to-galilee-basin-coal/6031288 |website=ABC News |date=21 January 2015 |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=9 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151009142627/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-01-21/adani-underlines-commitment-to-galilee-basin-coal/6031288 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Queensland Labor backs Adani's Carmichael coal project |date=July 2015 |url=http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/queensland-labor-backs-adanis-carmichael-coal-project-20150701-gi2gju.html |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=4 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704215513/http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/queensland-labor-backs-adanis-carmichael-coal-project-20150701-gi2gju.html |url-status=live }}</ref> however the party called on the Australian [[Coalition (Australia)|Liberal National government]] to use federal taxpayer money for the railway line.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Raggatt|first=Tony|date=5 September 2015|title=State won't say why it wants federal funding for coal project|work=[[Townsville Bulletin]]|url=https://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/news/townsville/state-wont-say-why-it-wants-federal-funding-for-coal-project/news-story/e3de3ce26174cc0663d3374f76756234|url-status=live|access-date=9 September 2015|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707123728/http://autobus.cyclingnews.com/road/2007/feb07/california07/?id=results/california073|archive-date=7 July 2012}}</ref><ref name="Creagh">{{Cite web|last=Creagh|first=Ben|date=2018-02-04|title=Federal minister says no funding for Adani rail line|url=https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/govt-minister-says-no-federal-funding-for-adani-rail-line/|access-date=2021-06-23|website=Australian Mining|language=en-AU|archive-date=24 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624205000/https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/govt-minister-says-no-federal-funding-for-adani-rail-line/|url-status=live}}</ref> The federal government considered the proposal,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Abbott government hints Adani could be considered for rail funding |date=24 August 2015 |url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/abbott-government-hints-adani-could-be-considered-for-rail-funding-20150824-gj6ci9.html |access-date=9 September 2015 |archive-date=26 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150826195147/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/abbott-government-hints-adani-could-be-considered-for-rail-funding-20150824-gj6ci9.html |url-status=live }}</ref> however in the end it was not successful. |
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== Financial viability == |
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Analysts doubt the mine is viable given current seaborne thermal coal prices and market trends. In November 2013 [[Morgan Stanley]] valued the mine at $0 and said <blockquote>“While the company expects the environmental clearance to come through in F2H14, it does not plan to spend money on developing the mine until coal prices rise from current levels”.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.adani.com/Common/Uploads/FinanceTemplate/3_FFReport_AEL_Morgan_Nov_13_293_update.pdf|title = Adani Enterprises Ltd - Hunkering Down; Waiting for Resolution on Adani Power|date = November 1, 2013|accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = Morgan Stanley|first = }}</ref></blockquote> In November 2014 Daniel Morgan, global commodities analyst at investment bank [[UBS]], said <blockquote>"On a standalone basis, the economics just don't stack up – I'm talking about costs and return on capital. You'd need a price of about $100-$110 a tonne for it to stack up".<ref>{{Cite news|title = Adani steps up Australia coal plans ahead of Modi visit|url = http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/11/12/adani-ent-australia-coal-idUSL3N0T126820141112|newspaper = Reuters|date = 2014-11-12|access-date = 9 September 2015}}</ref></blockquote>Seaborne [[thermal coal]] prices (Newcastle benchmark) have dropped from highs of around US$140/t in 2012 to around US$60/t in 2015 is due to increases in production and reduction in seaborne coal demand.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url = Http://ieefa.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/UBS-report-Japan-et-al.pdf|title = Thermal Coal Markets - Opportunity for Japan?|date = |accessdate = |website = |publisher = UBS|last = Shaw|first = Lachlan}}</ref> |
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In October 2020, the Queensland Labor Party government announced that the royalties deal for the coal mine had been signed.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-10-01|title=Qld government finalises Adani royalties deal before state election|url=https://www.afr.com/companies/mining/qld-government-finalises-adani-royalties-deal-before-state-election-20201001-p5611o|access-date=2021-04-21|website=Australian Financial Review|language=en|archive-date=21 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421055223/https://www.afr.com/companies/mining/qld-government-finalises-adani-royalties-deal-before-state-election-20201001-p5611o|url-status=live}}</ref> The deal includes deferring royalty payments for an unspecified period.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|date=2020-10-01|title=Queensland Government allows Adani to defer coal mining royalties and isn't saying for how long|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-10-01/adani-carmichael-coal-mine-royalties-deferred-qld-election/12716272|access-date=2021-06-23|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=16 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210816001347/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-10-01/adani-carmichael-coal-mine-royalties-deferred-qld-election/12716272|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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In September 2015 [[UBS]] said in a briefing note "no new coal mines needed on 5+ year view" and projected prices recovering to $88/t by 2019—still below the required price for Carmichael.<ref name=":2" /> |
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== Indigenous community impacts == |
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Tim Buckley, director of energy finance studies Australasia at the [[Institute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis]], argues that the Carmichael mine is a '[[stranded asset]]'.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://ieefa.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/IEEFA-key-points-Adani-in-Galilee.pdf|title = Galilee Coal Basin:Carmichael – A Stranded Asset?|date = May 2015|accessdate = |website = |publisher = IEEFA|last = Buckley|first = Tim}}</ref> Buckley cites a range of factors including: structural decline in seaborne coal markets; Adani's already high debt gearing; difficulty raising capital, a recent company restructure; approval delays. |
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=== Native title court cases === |
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In 2016, a group of Indigenous landholders launched a case in the Queensland Supreme court against the granting of Adani's mining lease, on the basis that they had not been properly consulted. The court ruled against overturning the mining lease.<ref>{{Cite web|title=StackPath|url=https://www.sclqld.org.au/caselaw/QSC/2016/273|access-date=2021-06-09|website=www.sclqld.org.au|archive-date=9 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609231234/https://www.sclqld.org.au/caselaw/QSC/2016/273|url-status=live}}</ref> A 2018 appeal upheld the 2016 decision.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Burragubba v Minister for Natural Resources and Mines [2018] 2 Qd R 93 {{!}} Queensland Reports Caselaw|url=https://www.queenslandjudgments.com.au/case/id/512665?mview=adani%7C&u=|access-date=2021-06-09|website=www.queenslandjudgments.com.au|language=en-US|archive-date=9 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609231235/https://www.queenslandjudgments.com.au/case/id/512665?mview=adani%7C&u=|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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=== Land use agreements === |
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Documents from Queensland Treasury released under [[Freedom of information laws by country|Freedom of Information]] showed senior officials advising Ministers that Carmichael "is unlikely to stack up on a conventional project finance assessment".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Adani's Carmichael Mine is unbankable says Queensland Treasury|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/adanis-carmichael-mine-is-unbankable-says-queensland-treasury-20150630-gi1l37.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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At a 2017 meeting, the majority of [[Wangan people|Wangan and Jagalingou]] (W&J) people present voted to accept the proposed mining rights deal presented by Adani. However, several W&J people have stated that they were paid by Adani to attend, or that their vote against the deal was not counted.<ref>{{cite web |title=Adani accused of paying people to stack its meeting on crucial mine deal |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-12-02/adani-accused-of-paying-people-to-stack-meeting-on-deal/9218246 |website=www.abc.net.au |access-date=17 October 2021 |language=en-AU |date=1 December 2017 |archive-date=17 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211017015303/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-12-02/adani-accused-of-paying-people-to-stack-meeting-on-deal/9218246 |url-status=live }}</ref> The resulting [[indigenous land use agreement]] was accepted by 7 of 12 W&J representatives. |
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A 2019 appeal by the other 5 W&J representatives was dismissed by the Federal Court, with Adani seeking $600,000 in court costs from the W&J representatives.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-07-12|title=Adani land-use agreement: court dismisses Indigenous group's appeal|url=http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/jul/12/adani-land-use-agreement-court-dismisses-indigenous-groups-appeal|access-date=2021-07-27|website=the Guardian|language=en|archive-date=28 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728071737/https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/jul/12/adani-land-use-agreement-court-dismisses-indigenous-groups-appeal|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Most of the coal from the mine would be purchased by Adani in India. [[LG Corporation|LG]] has announced it will not proceed with a contract to buy coal from the mine.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Adani loses LG as big customer for Carmichael mine|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/adani-loses-lg-as-big-customer-for-carmichael-mine-20150902-gjdu73.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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{{as of|August 2022}}, members of the Wangan and Jagalingou people continue to occupy a cultural ceremony and camp site near the mine.<ref>Stünzner, Inga [https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-28/traditional-owners-use-human-rights-to-occupy-adani-bravus-mine/101371986 Wangan and Jagalingou traditional owners use human rights law to occupy Bravus's Carmichael Coal Mine] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220902050635/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-28/traditional-owners-use-human-rights-to-occupy-adani-bravus-mine/101371986 |date=2 September 2022 }} ''ABC News'', 28 August, 2022. Retrieved 28 August, 2022.</ref> |
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== Proposed government subsidies == |
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The Queensland and Australian Governments have proposed various forms of assistance to the project. This is despite the [[G-20 major economies|G20]] commitment to phase out "inefficient" fossil fuel subsidies. |
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== Legal issues == |
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Queensland Government budget papers show spending of $9.5 billion between 2008 and 2014 assisting the mining industry.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Mining the age of entitlement {{!}} The Australia Institute|url = http://www.tai.org.au/content/mining-age-entitlement|website = www.tai.org.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Queensland Treasury wrote in a submission to the [[Commonwealth Grants Commission]]: <blockquote>Governments face budget constraints and spending on mining-related infrastructure means less infrastructure spending in other areas, including social infrastructure such as hospitals and schools.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://cgc.gov.au/index.php?option=com_attachments&task=download&id=1727|title = Queensland Treasury Response to Commonwealth Grants Commission. Response to Terms of Reference for Commonwealth Grants Commission 2015 Methodology Review|date = July 2013|accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = Queensland Treasury|first = }}</ref></blockquote>The Newman Queensland Government initially claimed it would not support the Carmichael project. But in 2014 it proposed a "royalty holiday" or reduced [[Royalty rate|royalty]] rates,<ref>{{Cite web|title = Hey, big spender: why Campbell Newman loves his election hard-hat|url = http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/jan/09/queensland-election-2015-campbell-newman-spending-promises|website = the Guardian|accessdate = 9 September 2015|first = Lenore|last = Taylor|first2 = Political|last2 = Editor}}</ref> as well as proposing to "co-invest" in infrastructure.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Gautam Adani says Queensland to co-invest in Australia project, govt defends SBI loan - Firstpost|url = http://www.firstpost.com/business/corporate-business/gautam-adani-says-queensland-to-co-invest-in-australia-project-govt-defends-sbi-loan-1997241.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> The Labor Opposition criticised this as a "blank cheque".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Rail line deal could cost taxpayers $1 billion-plus « Curtis Pitt MP ::: State Member for Mulgrave|url = http://www.curtispitt.com.au/2014/11/19/rail-line-deal-could-cost-taxpayers-1-billion-plus/|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Treasurer [[Jeff Seeney]] argued <blockquote>“The Queensland government, like governments across the world, have always provided some major incentives and the incentive we have decided to provide relates to infrastructure rather than the traditional handing out of grants.”</blockquote>During the [[Queensland state election, 2015|2015 Queensland Election]], the Labor Opposition promised not to fund the rail project linking the mine to the port.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Adani underlines commitment to Galilee Basin coal mine plans|url = http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-01-21/adani-underlines-commitment-to-galilee-basin-coal/6031288|website = ABC News|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Since Labor's election victory, the new Queensland Treasurer confirmed the government will not fund the rail line but did not rule out other forms of support such as a royalty holiday.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Queensland Labor backs Adani's Carmichael coal project|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/queensland-labor-backs-adanis-carmichael-coal-project-20150701-gi2gju.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Premier [[Annastacia Palaszczuk|Palaszczuk]] said she is "absolutely committed" to the project going ahead and called for federal funding for the rail line.<ref>{{Cite web|title = State won’t say why it wants federal funding for coal project|url = http://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/news/townsville/state-wont-say-why-it-wants-federal-funding-for-coal-project/story-fnjfzsax-1227513475234|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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=== Federal |
=== 2015: Federal EPBC approval (initial case) === |
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In January 2015, the ''Mackay Conservation Group'', challenged the July 2013 federal approval of the Carmichael project by [[Greg Hunt]], Environment Minister, under the ''[[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Mackay Conservation Group challenges Adani mine in Federal Court |url=http://www.theage.com.au/queensland/mackay-conservation-group-challenges-adani-mine-in-federal-court-20150115-12qwnp.html |newspaper=The Age |date=15 January 2015 |access-date=10 September 2015 |first=Jorge |last=Branco |archive-date=5 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170905070522/http://www.theage.com.au/queensland/mackay-conservation-group-challenges-adani-mine-in-federal-court-20150115-12qwnp.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[Federal Court of Australia]] case involved three main contentions, that the Minister did not take into account the greenhouse gas emissions, the company's environmental record in India and the "approved conservation advice" for the Yakka Skink and the ornamental snake.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION ACT 1999 – SECT 139 Requirements for decisions about threatened species and endangered communities |url=http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/epabca1999588/s139.html |website=www5.austlii.edu.au |access-date=10 September 2015 |archive-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150426040354/http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/epabca1999588/s139.html |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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The 2015-16 Federal Budget outlined the $5 billion [[Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility]] "to provide large concessional loans for the construction of ports, pipelines, electricity and water infrastructure that will open our northern frontier for business."<ref>{{Cite web|title = Government offers concessional loans for northern development|url = http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-05-12/budget-northern-australia-funding/6464998|website = ABC Rural|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = Federal budget 2015: Northern Australia to receive $5 billion in infrastructure loans|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/federal-budget/federal-budget-2015-northern-australia-to-receive-5-billion-in-infrastructure-loans-20150512-1mzhdq.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> The website states "The Commonwealth will not lend to projects that are commercially viable without Government assistance."<ref>{{Cite web|title = Frequently asked questions {{!}} Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility|url = http://naif.treasury.gov.au/faq/#collapseTwo|website = naif.treasury.gov.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> It is reported the Abbott government is considering using this fund to ensure the Carmichael rail line is built.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Abbott government hints Adani could be considered for rail funding|url = http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/abbott-government-hints-adani-could-be-considered-for-rail-funding-20150824-gj6ci9.html|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The court set aside the approval due to concerns regarding the yakka skink and ornamental snake, effectively overturning the approval.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Federal Court overturns approval of Adani Carmichael coal mine in Queensland |date=5 August 2015 |url=http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/federal-court-overturns-approval-of-adani-carmichael-coal-mine-in-queensland-20150805-girtz9.html |access-date=10 September 2015 |archive-date=20 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150920084630/http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/federal-court-overturns-approval-of-adani-carmichael-coal-mine-in-queensland-20150805-girtz9.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Federal Court intervenes over Adani 'lawfare' |date=19 August 2015 |url=http://www.afr.com/news/federal-court-intervenes-over-adani-lawfare-20150819-gj2w2q |access-date=10 September 2015 |archive-date=18 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150918171909/http://www.afr.com/news/federal-court-intervenes-over-adani-lawfare-20150819-gj2w2q |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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== Environmental impacts == |
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Following this decision, the attorney-general at the time, [[George Brandis]], stated his intention to disallow third parties from challenging the minister's approvals under the [[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999]].<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=18 August 2015—Government acts to protect jobs from vigilante litigants |url=http://www.attorneygeneral.gov.au/Mediareleases/Pages/2015/ThirdQuarter/18-August-2015-Government-acts-to-protect-jobs-from-vigilante-litigants.aspx |website=www.attorneygeneral.gov.au |access-date=9 September 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150823020319/http://www.attorneygeneral.gov.au/Mediareleases/Pages/2015/ThirdQuarter/18-August-2015-Government-acts-to-protect-jobs-from-vigilante-litigants.aspx|archive-date = 23 August 2015|url-status = dead}}</ref> This amendment to the Act did not occur. In October 2015, the coal mine was re-approved by the federal environment minister.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Lucas|first1=Adam|last2=Froome|first2=Craig|last3=Lake|first3=Katherine|last4=Molyneaux|first4=Lynette|last5=Currell|first5=Matthew|last6=Hepburn|first6=Samantha|title=Greg Hunt approves Adani's Carmichael coal mine, again: experts respond|url=http://theconversation.com/greg-hunt-approves-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine-again-experts-respond-49227|access-date=2021-08-03|website=The Conversation|date=15 October 2015|language=en|archive-date=3 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803015034/https://theconversation.com/greg-hunt-approves-adanis-carmichael-coal-mine-again-experts-respond-49227|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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=== Greenhouse gas emissions === |
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According to the mine’s environmental impact statement it will produce 200 million tonnes of [[carbon dioxide]] over the expected 60-year life of the mine.<ref name="fca">{{Cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/jan/14/federal-court-asked-to-overturn-adani-mine-approval-impact-great-barrier-reef |title=Federal court asked to overturn Adani mine approval due to impact on Great Barrier Reef |author=Lenore Taylor |accessdate=21 January 2015 |date=14 January 2015 |newspaper=The Guardian }}</ref> This includes gases produced during the mining process and from emissions created from the mining and transportation of the coal. |
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=== 2015-2016: Queensland mining leases and environmental authority === |
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The burning of that coal has been estimated to produce another 130 m tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.<ref name="fca">{{Cite news |url = http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/jan/14/federal-court-asked-to-overturn-adani-mine-approval-impact-great-barrier-reef|title = Federal court asked to overturn Adani mine approval due to impact on Great Barrier Reef|author = Lenore Taylor|accessdate = 21 January 2015|date = 14 January 2015|newspaper = The Guardian}}</ref> |
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In 2015, the ''Land Services of Coast and Country'' (LSCC) group launched a case in the Queensland Land Court challenging the Queensland coordinator-general's Mining Lease and Environmental Authority approvals.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/resources/project/carmichael/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-cg-report-may2014.pdf |title=Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Coordinator General's Report |website=May 2014 |access-date=1 September 2016 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304122816/http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/resources/project/carmichael/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-cg-report-may2014.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> LSCC contended the approval was flawed regarding the economic, environmental, and financial impact of the mine. The court's verdict in December 2015 did not overturn the approval, but placed extra environmental requirements on the mine.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Adani Mining Pty Ltd v Land Services of Coast and Country Inc [2015] QLC 48 {{!}} Queensland Land Court Caselaw|url=https://www.queenslandjudgments.com.au/caselaw/qlc/2015/48|access-date=2021-06-09|website=www.queenslandjudgments.com.au|language=en-US|archive-date=9 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609232409/https://www.queenslandjudgments.com.au/caselaw/qlc/2015/48|url-status=live}}</ref> LSCC applied in 2016 for an appeal in the Supreme Court of Queensland, and this application was unsuccessful.<ref>{{Cite web|title=StackPath|url=https://archive.sclqld.org.au/qjudgment/2016/QSC16-272.pdf|access-date=2021-06-03|website=archive.sclqld.org.au|archive-date=19 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419051203/https://archive.sclqld.org.au/qjudgment/2016/QSC16-272.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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The mine's claimed economic benefits are a disputed issue.<ref name="ruralelec">{{cite journal |last1=Molyneaux |first1=L. |last2=Wagner |first2=L. |last3=Foster |first3=J. |date=April 2016 |title=Rural electrification in India: Galilee Basin coal versus decentralised renewable energy micro grids |journal=Renewable Energy |volume=89 |pages=422–436 |doi=10.1016/j.renene.2015.12.002 |url=https://mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de/65285/1/MPRA_paper_65285.pdf |hdl=10072/99379 |s2cid=109825290 |hdl-access=free |access-date=12 December 2019 |archive-date=12 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200112065112/https://mpra.ub.uni-muenchen.de/65285/1/MPRA_paper_65285.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In court, Adani claimed it expected the mine to produce 2.3 billion tonnes of coal over 60 years, averaging to just under 40 million tonnes of coal a year, equivalent to 4.7 billion tonnes of [[carbon dioxide]].<ref name=":0" /> This is "approximately 0.53-0.56% of the carbon budget that remains after 2015 to have a likely chance of not exceeding 2 degrees warming."<ref name=":0" /> |
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=== 2016-2017: Federal EPBC approval regarding impacts on Great Barrier Reef === |
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A [[Greenpeace]] report showed the output from Carmichael would exceed the yearly [[carbon dioxide]] [[Air pollution|emissions]] from fuel combustion in many countries.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Cooking the climate: Wrecking the reef|url = http://www.greenpeace.org/australia/en/what-we-do/climate/resources/reports/Cooking-the-climate-Wrecking-the-reef/|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The [[Australian Conservation Foundation]] (ACF) made a judicial review challenge under the ''[[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999]]'' (''EPBC Act'') in late 2015, arguing that proper procedure was not followed when the Minister did not take into account the impact of emissions on the Great Barrier Reef. |
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{| |
|||
|'''Region/Country/Economy''' |
|||
|'''2009 CO2 emissions from fuel combustion (million tonnes)''' |
|||
|- |
|||
|''Carmichael Coal Mine (peak production 60mtpa)'' |
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|''128'' |
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|- |
|||
|Vietnam |
|||
|114 |
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|- |
|||
|Belgium |
|||
|101 |
|||
|- |
|||
|''Carmichael Coal Mine (production claimed in court, average 40mtpa)'' |
|||
|''85'' |
|||
|- |
|||
|Philippines |
|||
|71 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Austria |
|||
|63 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Qatar |
|||
|57 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Finland |
|||
|55 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Hungary |
|||
|48 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Denmark |
|||
|47 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Switzerland |
|||
|42 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Sweden |
|||
|42 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Norway |
|||
|37 |
|||
|} |
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The ACF appealed the decision in the Federal Court of Australia, which was unsuccessful.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Hepburn|first=Samantha|title=Why aren't Australia's environment laws preventing widespread land clearing?|language=en|work=The Conversation|url=https://theconversation.com/why-arent-australias-environment-laws-preventing-widespread-land-clearing-92924|access-date=3 December 2018|archive-date=3 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203152207/https://theconversation.com/why-arent-australias-environment-laws-preventing-widespread-land-clearing-92924|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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=== Local impacts === |
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The court ruled in favour of the government, based on the argument that only considering the direct emissions from mining operations (and not the emissions caused by the burning of its coal) is a decision at the minister's discretion.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2016/2016fca1042 |title=Australian Conservation Foundation Incorporated v Minister for the Environment [2016] FCA 1042 |access-date=3 December 2018 |archive-date=15 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180515005817/http://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2016/2016fca1042 |url-status=live }}</ref> The case hinged on a ''market substitution defence'', which has been criticised as "the only significant barrier remaining to a successful [[climate change]] case".<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://theconversation.com/carmichael-mine-jumps-another-legal-hurdle-but-litigants-are-making-headway-69423 |title=Carmichael mine jumps another legal hurdle, but litigants are making headway |last=Bell-James |first=Justine |date=26 November 2016 |work=The Conversation |access-date=2 February 2020 |language=en |archive-date=27 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200527164608/https://theconversation.com/carmichael-mine-jumps-another-legal-hurdle-but-litigants-are-making-headway-69423 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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==== Water ==== |
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Adani has applied for a water licence to extract up to 12.5 GL per year from the [[Belyando River]] for use at the Carmichael mine.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.adanimining.com/Common/Uploads/SEISDocuments/39_SEISDoc_Appendix%20C4e%20-%20Application%20to%20take%20water%20from%20the%20Belyando%20River.pdf|title = SEIS Appendix 20 - Application to take water from the Belyando River|date = |accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = Adani|first = }}</ref> The mine will also use groundwater that flows to the surface during the process of “dewatering” the open cut pits and underground mines. |
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=== 2018: Federal EPBC approval- exemption for water usage from the Sutton River === |
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According to the Supplementary Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) submitted by Adani, “maximum impacts in excess of 300m are predicted” for the local water table. Beyond the mine boundary, Adani’s groundwater model predicts water table levels to drop “typically between 20 and 50m” and “up to around 4m in the vicinity of the [Carmichael] river”.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Supplementary EIS Documents|url = http://www.adanimining.com/seis-pdfdocs-details/50/154|website = www.adanimining.com|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> Impacts on ground water were central to a case in the QLD Land Court, where Adani's expert witness defended inferences drawn from drilling data, against allegations that this was insufficient to determine risks of collapses underground that could impact groundwater systems.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Groundwater dominates discussion at Adani court case|url = http://www.frasercoastchronicle.com.au/news/groundwater-dominates-discussion-adani-court-case/2601119/|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The [[Australian Conservation Foundation]] (ACF), represented by [[Environmental Defenders Office|Environmental Defenders Office Queensland]] (EDO), lodged a judicial review challenge in the [[Federal Court of Australia|Federal Court]] in December 2018 of the Federal Environment Minister's decision to not apply appropriate legislation regarding water.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/adani-faces-new-hurdle-over-huge-water-plan-in-drought-ravaged-queensland-20181204-p50k3s.html |title=Adani faces new hurdle over huge water plan in drought-ravaged Queensland |last=Hasham |first=Nicole |date=4 December 2018 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en |access-date=4 December 2018 |archive-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204134951/https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/adani-faces-new-hurdle-over-huge-water-plan-in-drought-ravaged-queensland-20181204-p50k3s.html |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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The review challenged then-Environment Minister [[Melissa Price (politician)|Melissa Price]]'s decision to waive a full environmental assessment for water use from the [[Suttor River]] in central Queensland. Adani notified the government that the act was a controlled act but the government decided that it was not a controlled activity under the ''EPBC Act'' and that no environmental impact assessment (EIS) was needed for it to proceed.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.edo.org.au/2018/11/13/explainer-what-is-the-water-trigger/ |title=Explainer: What is the 'water trigger'? |work=Environmental Defenders Office Queensland (EDO Qld) |access-date=31 August 2020 |archive-date=26 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926153035/https://www.edo.org.au/2018/11/13/explainer-what-is-the-water-trigger/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/dec/04/court-challenge-launched-over-ministers-flawed-decision-on-adani-water-trigger |title=Court challenge launched over minister's 'flawed' decision on Adani water trigger |last=Cox |first=Lisa |date=4 December 2018 |website=the Guardian |language=en |access-date=4 December 2018 |archive-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204085422/https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/dec/04/court-challenge-launched-over-ministers-flawed-decision-on-adani-water-trigger |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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==== Endangered species ==== |
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The mine site area is home to a number of endangered species, including the [[yakka skink]], [[the ornamental snake]], the [[waxy cabbage palm]], and the [[Black-throated finch|black throated finch]]. Moray Downs, which is covered by the mine site, is home to the largest known community of black throated finches.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Environment - Queensland's Galilee Basin|url = http://galileebasin.org/the-issues/environment/|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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Under amendments to the ''EPBC Act'' known as the [[water trigger]], the Minister must obtain advice from an Independent Expert Scientific Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Large Coal Mining Development<ref>{{cite web | title=Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Amendment (Independent Expert Scientific Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Large Coal Mining Development) Act 2012 | website=Federal Register of Legislation | date=26 October 2012 | url=https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2012A00145 | access-date=31 August 2020 | archive-date=13 May 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513153851/https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2012A00145 | url-status=live }}</ref> if an activity is likely to have a significant impact on water resources or impact on a protected ecological communities, species, [[World Heritage Site]]s, [[national heritage site]]s, or protected wetlands.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-12-04/adani-water-licence-acf-court-challenge/10582602 |title=Adani coal mine water licence faces Federal Court challenge over move to bypass EIS |date=4 December 2018 |work=ABC News |access-date=4 December 2018 |language=en-AU |archive-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204113253/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-12-04/adani-water-licence-acf-court-challenge/10582602 |url-status=live }}</ref> The water trigger was added to the ''EPBC Act'' in 2013 by [[Tony Windsor]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2013-06-20/water-trigger-nsw/4767602 |title=Farmers say water trigger amendment gives confidence |last=Herbert |first=Lisa |date=20 June 2013 |work=ABC Rural |access-date=4 December 2018 |language=en-AU |archive-date=22 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171122041533/http://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2013-06-20/water-trigger-nsw/4767602 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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==== Bygana West Nature Refuge: endangered koala habitat ==== |
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The Carmichael project's open-cut mine most of the Bygana West Nature Refuge, which includes two endangered regional woodland ecosystems and habitat suitable for a variety of animals including koalas.<ref>{{Cite web|title = The Carmichael Mine-strosity|url = https://www.getup.org.au/campaigns/mining/coal/the-carmichael-mine-strosity|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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In June 2019, the application was allowed by consent, meaning the Australian Government would reassess the project’s water use.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-06-12|title=Adani coalmine: minister loses legal challenge on water pipeline assessment|url=http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/jun/12/adani-coalmine-federal-government-loses-legal-challenge-on-water-assessment|access-date=2021-08-03|website=the Guardian|language=en|archive-date=3 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803015707/https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/jun/12/adani-coalmine-federal-government-loses-legal-challenge-on-water-assessment|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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== Legal Challenges == |
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There have been a number of legal challenges to the project. |
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=== 2020: Federal EPBC approval- exemption for water pipeline project === |
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=== Native Title claims === |
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In March 2020, the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) launched a judicial review application regarding the water pipeline for the project (called the ''North Galilee Water Scheme Infrastructure Project''). The application argued that the water pipeline should require assessment under the [[water trigger|EPBC water trigger]]. |
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The federal court ruled in favour of the AFC in May 2021, thereby requiring the minister to reconsider the environmental impacts associated with the mine's water pipeline before it is approved.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Environmental Law Australia {{!}} Carmichael Coal ("Adani") Mine cases in the Federal Court|url=http://envlaw.com.au/carmichael-coal-mine-federal-court/|access-date=2021-08-03|language=en-AU|archive-date=30 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181130042430/http://envlaw.com.au/carmichael-coal-mine-federal-court/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==== ''Adani Mining Pty Ltd and Another v Adrian Burragubba, Patrick Malone and Irene White on behalf of the Wangan and Jagalingou People'' ==== |
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Indigenous landholders mounted a challenge to Carmichael Mine, and called on the Queensland Government to refuse a mining lease to Adani Mining. In a major test of Australia's [[Native title legislation in Australia|native title laws]], the [[Wangan and Jagalingou]] people rejected the [[Indigenous Land Use Agreement]] with Adani. Adani then launched legal action (''Adani Mining Pty Ltd and Another v Adrian Burragubba, Patrick Malone and Irene White on behalf of the Wangan and Jagalingou People'') in the [[National Native Title Tribunal|Native Title Tribunal]] in an attempt to enable the Queensland government to compulsorily acquire the land and push the mine ahead.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Native title battle shaping up over Adani coal mine|url = http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/native-title-battle-shaping-up-over-adani-coal-mine-20150326-1m8esn.html#ixzz3ke2lPNCG|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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== See also == |
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Adrian Burragubba, spokesperson for the [[Wangan and Jagalingou]] people, said <blockquote>"But I think there is a concern that the values that have been expressed in the Native Title processes, probably since 1997, are that mining is really equivalent to the public interest, mines must go ahead, and it's about compensation. So I think the [W&J people] don't have a lot of confidence that 'no' is really on the table, even though the legislation does provide it is on the table."<ref>{{Cite web|title = Indigenous people reject $16 billion Qld coal mine|url = http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-26/wangan-jagalingou-people-say-no-to-16-billion-carmichael-mine-q/6349252|website = ABC News|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref></blockquote>The traditional owners against the development claimed the project would "devastate their ancestral lands and waters, totemic animals and plants, and cultural heritage".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Native title battle shaping up over Adani coal mine|url = http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/native-title-battle-shaping-up-over-adani-coal-mine-20150326-1m8esn.html|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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{{Portal|Queensland}} |
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=== Environmental law === |
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==== ''Mackay Conservation Group v Commonwealth of Australia and Adani Mining'' ==== |
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[[Mackay Conservation Group|In January 2015, Mackay Conservation Group]], based in [[Mackay Region|Mackay]], challenged July 2013 federal approval of the Carmichael project by [[Greg Hunt]], Environment Minister, under the ''[[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999]]''.<ref>{{Cite news|title = Mackay Conservation Group challenges Adani mine in Federal Court|url = http://www.theage.com.au/queensland/mackay-conservation-group-challenges-adani-mine-in-federal-court-20150115-12qwnp.html|newspaper = The Age|date = 15 January 2015|access-date = 10 September 2015|first = Jorge|last = Branco}}</ref> The Group was represented by the [[Environmental Defenders Office of NSW]]. The case involved three main contentions:<ref>{{Cite web|title = Mackay Conservation Group v Commonwealth of Australia and Adani Mining|url = http://www.edonsw.org.au/mackay_conservation_group_v_commonwealth_of_australia_and_adani_mining|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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* That the Minister unlawfully excluded consideration of greenhouse gas emissions to emissions directly associated with the operation of the mine. The Minister did not consider the much larger emissions associated with burning the coal from the mine. |
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* That the Minister failed to consider Adani's poor record of environmental management in India, including building without approvals and illegally clearing mangroves,<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.greenpeace.org/australia/Global/australia/volunteer/Adani's%20record.pdf|title = Research Briefing: Adani’s record of environmental destruction and non-compliance with regulations|date = 10 March 2014|accessdate = |website = |publisher = |last = Greenpeace|first = }}</ref> instead relying on a statement from the company that it has a good track record. |
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* That the Minister did not consider "approved conservation advice" for two [[endangered species]] that would be affected by the mine, the [[Yakka Skink|yakka skink]] and the [[ornamental snake]], as required by federal law.<ref>{{Cite web|title = ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION ACT 1999 - SECT 139 Requirements for decisions about threatened species and endangered communities|url = http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/epabca1999588/s139.html|website = www5.austlii.edu.au|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The [[Federal Court of Australia|Federal Court]] set aside the approval on the latter ground. Despite reports Federal Court "overturned" the approval,<ref>{{Cite web|title = Federal Court overturns approval of Adani Carmichael coal mine in Queensland|url = http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/federal-court-overturns-approval-of-adani-carmichael-coal-mine-in-queensland-20150805-girtz9.html|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> the decision occurred by [[consent order]] signed by the [[Department of the Environment (Australia)|Department of Environment]] and [[Adani Group|Adani]].<ref>{{Cite web|title = Federal Court intervenes over Adani 'lawfare'|url = http://www.afr.com/news/federal-court-intervenes-over-adani-lawfare-20150819-gj2w2q|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The Department is currently reassessing the proposal.<ref name="Milman"/> |
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==== ''Adani Mining Pty Ltd v Land Services of Coast and Country Inc.'' ==== |
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In May 2014 the Queensland Coordinator General recommended the project be approved<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/resources/project/carmichael/carmichael-coal-mine-and-rail-cg-report-may2014.pdf|title = Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Coordinator General's Report|date = |accessdate = |website = May 2014|publisher = |last = |first = }}</ref> and there was a call for public comment and objections. [[Coast and Country]], represented by [[Environmental Defenders Office Queensland|Evironmental Defenders Office Queensland]], brought a case to the [[Queensland Land Court]]. They contended: |
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# "Adani grossly overstated to the public the number of jobs, and royalties the mine would have for Queensland; |
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# The mine, rail and port as well as the burning of coal will cause damage to the Great Barrier Reef from climate change and ocean acidification; |
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# The mine will destroy the core population of endangered Black Throated Finch and may impact on Waxy Cabbage Palms; |
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# The mine will threaten the base flow of the Carmichael River and may threaten the ancient springs estimated to be one million years old; and |
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# The project is extremely risky and unlikely to be financially viable."<ref>{{Cite web|title = LATEST ON THE CASE: Adani Carmichael coal mine objection {{!}} Edo QLD|url = http://www.edoqld.org.au/adani-carmichael-live-feed/|website = www.edoqld.org.au|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref> |
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=== Criticism of 'viligante lawfare' === |
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Substantial controversy about federal environmental law followed the 2015 Federal Court decision to set aside the Carmichael approval (agreed by consent orders signed by the government). Government Ministers criticised the group bringing this case under [[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999|federal environment law]], calling them “vigilante litigants” engaged in economic "sabotage".<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|title = 18 August 2015—Government acts to protect jobs from vigilante litigants|url = http://www.attorneygeneral.gov.au/Mediareleases/Pages/2015/ThirdQuarter/18-August-2015-Government-acts-to-protect-jobs-from-vigilante-litigants.aspx|website = www.attorneygeneral.gov.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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The government is seeking to change the law to prevent 'third parties’ from bringing cases where they are not directly impacted by the proposal.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|title = 18 August 2015—Government acts to protect jobs from vigilante litigants|url = http://www.attorneygeneral.gov.au/Mediareleases/Pages/2015/ThirdQuarter/18-August-2015-Government-acts-to-protect-jobs-from-vigilante-litigants.aspx|website = www.attorneygeneral.gov.au|accessdate = 9 September 2015}}</ref> Prime Minister [[Tony Abbott]] urged the business community to get behind these changes, saying “if the Adani mine does not go ahead soon, we are crazy.”<ref>{{Cite news|url = http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/abbott-tells-business-forget-talk-time-to-act-on-trade-pact-adani/story-fn59niix-1227501829373?sv=868c8ae7e5434fd20367b7fc8c4debb5&login=1|title = Abbott Tells Business: Forget Talk, Time to Act on Trade Pact and Adani|last = |first = |date = |work = |access-date = |via = }}</ref> Radio broadcaster Alan Jones, on many issues a supporter of the Liberal Government, has launched a TV ad, stating <blockquote>"I may live nowhere near the Liverpool Plains or the Great Barrier Reef. But I sure as hell am concerned they are protected. ... The latest move by the Abbott government puts at risk not just our environment but our very democracy"<ref>{{Cite web|title = Alan Jones fronts ad campaign opposing Abbott government plan|url = http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/quite-simply-unbelievable-alan-jones-fronts-ad-campaign-opposing-abbott-government-plan-20150907-gjgkph.html#ixzz3lJxOsg00|accessdate = 10 September 2015}}</ref></blockquote> |
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==See also== |
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{{Portal|Queensland|Mining}} |
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*[[Coal mining in Australia]] |
*[[Coal mining in Australia]] |
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*[[List of mines in Australia]] |
*[[List of mines in Australia]] |
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{{Clear}} |
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==References== |
==References== |
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{{reflist |
{{reflist}} |
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{{Adani Group|state=collapsed}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Carmichael Mine}} |
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[[Category:Coal mines in Australia]] |
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[[Category:Coal mines in Queensland]] |
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[[Category:Mines in Central Queensland]] |
[[Category:Mines in Central Queensland]] |
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[[Category:Surface mines in Australia]] |
[[Category:Surface mines in Australia]] |
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[[Category:Underground mines in Australia]] |
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[[Category:Isaac Region]] |
[[Category:Isaac Region]] |
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[[Category:Charters Towers Region]] |
[[Category:Charters Towers Region]] |
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[[Category:Adani Group]] |
Latest revision as of 08:19, 16 November 2024
Location | |
---|---|
Location | Isaac Region, Queensland |
Country | Australia |
Coordinates | 22°03′S 146°23′E / 22.050°S 146.383°E |
Production | |
Products | Thermal coal |
Type | Open-pit |
Owner | |
Company | Bravus Mining & Resources, an Adani Group subsidiary |
Website | Official website |
The Carmichael coal mine is a coal mine in Queensland, Australia, owned by the Adani Group's Australian subsidiary Bravus Mining & Resources. It was approved by the government in 2014 and has been operational since December 2021. The mine was initially planned to produce 60 million tonnes of coal per year; however, funding difficulties resulted in downsizing the planned mine to produce 10 million tonnes per year. Construction of the mine started in June 2019, and on 29 December 2021 the first coal shipment from the Carmichael Mine was ready for export.
The mine has drawn criticism for its environmental impacts on the Great Barrier Reef, water usage, and carbon emissions, leading to a campaign known as Stop Adani. It has been dogged by legal issues relating mainly to the environmental aspects. Other contentious issues are its claimed economic benefits, financial viability, and use of taxpayer funding.
History
[edit]The mine was announced in 2010, initially with a forecast mining duration of 90 years, which was later reduced to 60 years.[1] The federal government approved the project in July 2014. Associated works included new port terminals and seabed dredging at the Abbot Point, and it was planned to dump the drudge on land.[2] The coal was planned to be transported by rail (including the Goonyella railway line) to the ports at Hay Point and Abbot Point.[3]
However, the approval was set aside in August 2015, when the Federal Court of Australia found that environment minister Greg Hunt did not correctly follow requirements under Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 regarding the yakka skink and ornamental snake endangered species.[4] This led to considerable controversy and the project was re-approved in October 2015.[5]
The mine was initially planned to produce 60 million tonnes of coal per year; however, funding difficulties resulted in downsizing the planned mine to produce 10 million tonnes per year.[6][7][8]
In June 2019 Adani Australia commenced construction of the Carmichael mine.[9] The company aims to be starting commercial-scale coal mining by the end of 2021.[10] Mine approvals and construction were delayed by campaigns run by traditional owners and environmentalists, which included non-violent direct action at the construction site.[11]
The thermal coal produced by the mine was predicted to consist of 11% ash and have a weighted average value of 5,000–5,500 kcal/kg.[12]
In November 2020, Adani changed the name of its Australian subsidiary, which operates the mine, from Adani Mining to Bravus Mining & Resources.[13]
The company was the "jersey sleeve" sponsor of the North Queensland Cowboys NRL rugby league team for the 2021 season.[14]
On 29 December 2021, the first coal shipment from the Carmichael Mine was ready for export.[15][16]
Location
[edit]The mine is located in Central Queensland, with the majority of the site being within the Isaac Region and a small portion being within the Charters Towers Region.[6][17]
The coal was formed as part of the Galilee Basin, a 247,000 square kilometre inland region which includes aquifers that are a part of the Great Artesian Basin underground fresh water source.[18] Mining operations currently consist of small-scale barite, bentonite, calcite, gypsum; limestone, opals; phosphate and potassium mines; there is no history of coal mining of the basin.[19]
Mine and associated facilities
[edit]The mine is intended to be an open-cut mine (compared with earlier designs which also included underground mines)[6] with 279 km2 (108 sq mi) of land being excavated.[1] The total area of the mine site is planned to be 447 km2 (173 sq mi).[20][third-party source needed][needs update]
The original plan included a new 388 kilometres (241 mi) long standard-gauge railway,[21][22] which was proposed to be paid for by taxpayers.[23][24] In September 2018, Adani announced that it had abandoned plans to build the standard-gauge line in favour of a 200 km (124 mi) extension to a nearby existing narrow-gauge railway. This railway is planned to connect the mine to the maritime freight terminal at Abbot Point[25] and construction began in mid-2020.[26][needs update] Construction of the approximately 200km Carmichael Rail Network was completed in September 2021.[27][better source needed]
In January 2020, in response to protests in Berlin by Extinction Rebellion, Siemens announced it would re-evaluate its $20m contract to supply signalling systems for the rail link,[28] but decided to continue with the contract saying there was "practically no legally and economically responsible way to unwind the contract without neglecting fiduciary duties."[29]
The fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers for the mine during the construction phase were based in the regional cities of Rockhampton and Townsville.[30] A new airstrip close to the mine was proposed to be constructed, at a cost to taxpayers of $31 million[31] to $34 million.[32] Following public criticisms and the project delays, government funding for the proposed airstrip was cancelled[33] and the airstrip was paid for by Adani. Flights to the airstrip began in June 2020.[34]
The subcontract for the construction of a 189 km (117 mi) railway line to the mine was signed in 2020.[35][36] The company stated that it had approximately 2000 employees in November 2020[37] and approximately 2600 employees in June 2021.[38]
The Bravus subsidiary Bowen Rail Company operates the coal trains on the Carmichael Rail Network.[39]
Environmental impacts
[edit]Greenhouse gas emissions
[edit]According to the environmental impact statement, the mine was expected to produce 200 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, based on a 60-year lifespan.[40]
In April 2019, Bob Brown led a convoy of vehicles to protest against the proposed coal mine. The protest was criticised by pro-coal lobby groups and is considered a factor in the Queensland voters' swing away from progressive parties in the 2019 Australian federal election.[41][42]
Greta Thunberg drew international attention to the mine in January 2020, when she called on large German-based industrial corporation Siemens AG (which claimed to be one of the first companies to have pledged to be carbon neutral by 2030) to stop the delivery of railway equipment for the mine.[43] Siemens responded that it "should have been wiser about this project beforehand", but declined to cancel the contract.[44]
Water – rivers and underground sources
[edit]Adani had initially planned to use 12,500 megalitres per year from the Belyando River for the Carmichael coal mine.[45] Regarding the reduction on the local water table, the company's Supplementary Environmental Impact Statement stated that "maximum impacts in excess of 300 metres are predicted". Beyond the mine boundary, Adani's groundwater model predicted water table levels to drop "typically between 20 and 50m" and "up to around 4m in the vicinity of the [Carmichael] river".[46] During a hearing in the QLD Land Court, Adani's representatives defended predictions drawn from drilling data, despite allegations of this being insufficient to determine risks of collapses underground that could impact groundwater systems.[47]
Endangered species
[edit]The mine site area is home to a number of species, including the yakka skink, ornamental snake, and the waxy cabbage palm. The mine site is home to the largest known community of black throated finches,[48] and the operation of the mine is subject to a Black-Throated Finch Management Plan.[49]
The finches' population is in decline, and the southern subspecies is threatened, having vanished from 80% of its former range.[50] Adani Australia produced a management plan for the finch,[51] proposing to gradually clear land around the mine and force the finches to move away.[52] The plan was heavily criticised by some ecologists, who highlighted the plan to graze cattle on protected land and noted the land was tagged to be used for other projects.[53] There was also a lack of transparency and consultation with experts in the field.[54]
Environmental activism: Stop Adani
[edit]The mine drawn criticism for its environmental impacts on the Great Barrier Reef, water usage, and carbon emissions.[55] Since approval for the mine was given by the government in 2014, campaigners have opposed the project with hundreds of rallies and other actions targeting 145 companies, as part of a campaign known as Stop Adani,[56][57][58][59]
Financial issues
[edit]In 2015, a number of major international banks publicly ruled out financing the coal mine, railway line or shipping terminal. This included more than half of the top 20 coal financing banks globally,[60] such as Citigroup, JP Morgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, Royal Bank of Scotland, HSBC, Barclays, Credit Agricole and Société Générale. Standard Chartered provided financing to the project, but Adani ended the bank's advisory contract.[61]
Large coal projects in Australia typically engage with one or more of the "big four" Australian banks in arranging or providing debt. However, National Australia Bank announced in September 2015 that it would not fund the project,[62] followed by Westpac in April 2015 and ANZ Bank in August 2017.[63][64]
Before the mine's construction, some analysts doubted the mine was viable given the price of coal at the time. In November 2014, one analyst predicted that a price of about $100–$110 a tonne was required for the project be financially viable.[65] The price of coal fluctuated significantly over following years; from US$60/t in 2015, then US$115/t in 2018 and US$170/t in May 2021.[66][67] The company claims that it has agreements in place to sell 10 million tonnes of coal from the mine.[68]
Taxpayer funding
[edit]In 2014, the Queensland Liberal National Party state government proposed reduced taxes for the project in the form of an open-ended royalty rate "holiday",[69] and for taxpayers to pay for the sediment dumping facility in the Caley Valley wetlands.[70] The Labor opposition criticised the secrecy surrounding the costs and suggested that up to $1.08 billion of public money would be required.[71]
Following the Queensland Labor Party's victory in the 2015 state election, the Labor party vowed to not use state funds for the railway line,[72][73] however the party called on the Australian Liberal National government to use federal taxpayer money for the railway line.[74][75] The federal government considered the proposal,[76] however in the end it was not successful.
In October 2020, the Queensland Labor Party government announced that the royalties deal for the coal mine had been signed.[77] The deal includes deferring royalty payments for an unspecified period.[78]
Indigenous community impacts
[edit]Native title court cases
[edit]In 2016, a group of Indigenous landholders launched a case in the Queensland Supreme court against the granting of Adani's mining lease, on the basis that they had not been properly consulted. The court ruled against overturning the mining lease.[79] A 2018 appeal upheld the 2016 decision.[80]
Land use agreements
[edit]At a 2017 meeting, the majority of Wangan and Jagalingou (W&J) people present voted to accept the proposed mining rights deal presented by Adani. However, several W&J people have stated that they were paid by Adani to attend, or that their vote against the deal was not counted.[81] The resulting indigenous land use agreement was accepted by 7 of 12 W&J representatives.
A 2019 appeal by the other 5 W&J representatives was dismissed by the Federal Court, with Adani seeking $600,000 in court costs from the W&J representatives.[82]
As of August 2022[update], members of the Wangan and Jagalingou people continue to occupy a cultural ceremony and camp site near the mine.[83]
Legal issues
[edit]2015: Federal EPBC approval (initial case)
[edit]In January 2015, the Mackay Conservation Group, challenged the July 2013 federal approval of the Carmichael project by Greg Hunt, Environment Minister, under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.[84] The Federal Court of Australia case involved three main contentions, that the Minister did not take into account the greenhouse gas emissions, the company's environmental record in India and the "approved conservation advice" for the Yakka Skink and the ornamental snake.[85]
The court set aside the approval due to concerns regarding the yakka skink and ornamental snake, effectively overturning the approval.[86][87]
Following this decision, the attorney-general at the time, George Brandis, stated his intention to disallow third parties from challenging the minister's approvals under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.[88] This amendment to the Act did not occur. In October 2015, the coal mine was re-approved by the federal environment minister.[89]
2015-2016: Queensland mining leases and environmental authority
[edit]In 2015, the Land Services of Coast and Country (LSCC) group launched a case in the Queensland Land Court challenging the Queensland coordinator-general's Mining Lease and Environmental Authority approvals.[90] LSCC contended the approval was flawed regarding the economic, environmental, and financial impact of the mine. The court's verdict in December 2015 did not overturn the approval, but placed extra environmental requirements on the mine.[91] LSCC applied in 2016 for an appeal in the Supreme Court of Queensland, and this application was unsuccessful.[92]
The mine's claimed economic benefits are a disputed issue.[93]
2016-2017: Federal EPBC approval regarding impacts on Great Barrier Reef
[edit]The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) made a judicial review challenge under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) in late 2015, arguing that proper procedure was not followed when the Minister did not take into account the impact of emissions on the Great Barrier Reef.
The ACF appealed the decision in the Federal Court of Australia, which was unsuccessful.[94]
The court ruled in favour of the government, based on the argument that only considering the direct emissions from mining operations (and not the emissions caused by the burning of its coal) is a decision at the minister's discretion.[95] The case hinged on a market substitution defence, which has been criticised as "the only significant barrier remaining to a successful climate change case".[96]
2018: Federal EPBC approval- exemption for water usage from the Sutton River
[edit]The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), represented by Environmental Defenders Office Queensland (EDO), lodged a judicial review challenge in the Federal Court in December 2018 of the Federal Environment Minister's decision to not apply appropriate legislation regarding water.[97]
The review challenged then-Environment Minister Melissa Price's decision to waive a full environmental assessment for water use from the Suttor River in central Queensland. Adani notified the government that the act was a controlled act but the government decided that it was not a controlled activity under the EPBC Act and that no environmental impact assessment (EIS) was needed for it to proceed.[98][99]
Under amendments to the EPBC Act known as the water trigger, the Minister must obtain advice from an Independent Expert Scientific Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Large Coal Mining Development[100] if an activity is likely to have a significant impact on water resources or impact on a protected ecological communities, species, World Heritage Sites, national heritage sites, or protected wetlands.[101] The water trigger was added to the EPBC Act in 2013 by Tony Windsor.[102]
In June 2019, the application was allowed by consent, meaning the Australian Government would reassess the project’s water use.[103]
2020: Federal EPBC approval- exemption for water pipeline project
[edit]In March 2020, the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) launched a judicial review application regarding the water pipeline for the project (called the North Galilee Water Scheme Infrastructure Project). The application argued that the water pipeline should require assessment under the EPBC water trigger.
The federal court ruled in favour of the AFC in May 2021, thereby requiring the minister to reconsider the environmental impacts associated with the mine's water pipeline before it is approved.[104]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Adani (13 November 2013). "Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project SEIS Volume 2 – Mine Studies" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 3 March 2016.
- ^ "Expanding the Port of Abbot Point". www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au. Archived from the original on 19 September 2015. Retrieved 9 September 2015.
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