The Australian Greens are calling for the Abbott Government to revoke its approval to dump dredge sludge in the Great Barrier Reef for the Abbot Point coal port, following reports the proponent is considering onshore disposal.
“ It’s appalling that the Abbott and Newman governments have ticked off on dumping sludge in the Reef’s World Heritage waters, when even the proponent itself realizes there’s too much community opposition and scientific concern to treat the Reef like a rubbish tip, ” Senator Larissa Waters, Australian Greens environment spokesperson , said.
“ Onshore disposal would be a far better option environmentally and for the tourism and fishing industries, however the problems of increased shipping and export of coal to exacerbate climate change remain.”
“ That North Queensland Bulk Ports is considering onshore disposal is testament to the passionate, dedicated community opposition and scientific concern against our Reef being used as a dump ground ,” added Senator Waters.
“ The Abbott and Newman governments need to start listening to the community and the science rather than the big mining companies. Reef dumping needs to be outlawed once and for all ,” Senator Waters said.
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Press Release, September 2, 2014