2024-06-17
Today the Senate heard concerning evidence that the huge gas and petrochemical scheme proposed for Darwin Harbour poses a risk to human health, will worsen the climate crisis, and is against the wishes of the Darwin community including First Nations leaders.
Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is chairing the inquiry into Middle Arm, Greens Spokesperson for Environment and water:
“The toxic pollution in Darwin which threatens human health will get much worse if this scheme goes ahead, subsidised by taxpayers to the tune of $1.5 billion. It's time that the local Darwin community were listened to by representatives here in Canberra - they don't want this toxic gas hub.
"It's disturbing that the EPA is not already monitoring all the pollutants and toxins that have been pumped into the air in Darwin, and yet are about to sign off on expanding this pollution even further despite the risks to human health.
"The local fishermen and tourism operators are worried about the impact this will have on their industry and their jobs. They would prefer clean, renewable energy not more toxins being pumped out into the Darwin air and water.
"In Darwin we heard directly from locals who are very concerned about the health impacts of this project, the petrochemicals and the toxic nature of the LNG scheme that is already there. This will get even worse if Middle Arm goes ahead.
"No wonder the local community, the tourism industry, the fishing industry, the schools, the nurses, the doctors, and the local traditional owners don't want this project."
"We know we have to stop making the climate crisis worse. That means we have to stop opening up new coal and new gas mines. “
More background on the health issues: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-06-14/inpex-ichthys-lng-plant-darwin-nt-vocs-emissions-increase/103668268