The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has initiated a statewide consultation, inviting community members across the state to provide feedback on the regulation of coal mines.
This comprehensive review aims to ensure that mining licences are operating as intended, with a focus on protecting community health and the environment.
EPA CEO Tony Chappel emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating: “We’re committed to ensuring all mines in NSW are operating environmentally responsibly, and to get a gauge on this it’s key we hear directly from those living in proximity to these sites.”
The consultation process will allow the EPA to assess the coal mining sector holistically and explore ways to enhance regulatory consistency and improve community transparency through increased reporting and monitoring.
The EPA is particularly interested in gathering feedback on several crucial areas:
- Compliance with license requirements, including limits on noise, dust, and water quality
- Potential improvements in regulatory consistency
- Opportunities for increased community transparency
Chappel assured that all feedback received would be carefully considered, and the EPA would be prepared to implement necessary changes to strengthen operating requirements.
The agency plans to update environment protection licences across NSW to align with its Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2023-26.
This initiative aims to progressively minimise emissions and reduce exposure to climate risks in the coal mining sector.
The public consultation period will run from August 21 to October 2, 2024.
Community members and stakeholders are encouraged to participate by visiting the EPA’s dedicated consultation website.
This statewide review complements the statutory five-yearly reviews of coal mine licenses, many of which are due for review this year.
The EPA’s comprehensive approach underscores its commitment to maintaining rigorous environmental standards in the coal mining industry while addressing the evolving challenges posed by climate change.
