Water Trigger Could Halt Gas Exploration Projects
The Beetaloo Basin, one of Australia’s largest fracking projects, is under environmental scrutiny as the federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek, orders a new assessment.
The review will determine whether the “water trigger” should be activated, which requires federal approval for projects impacting water supplies. This trigger was expanded by federal Labor last year to include fracking projects.
While the gas industry argues that the water trigger adds unnecessary bureaucracy, Minister Plibersek insists the assessment will address concerns about water safety. Traditional landowners and environmentalists support the assessment but demand stronger action to protect water resources.
Tamboran Resources, one of the key players in the Basin, maintains that its activities will not significantly impact water, but the independent scientific committee will decide.
The Beetaloo Basin’s development is considered vital for Northern Territory’s economy and to prevent gas shortages in Eastern Australia. However, local communities fear the environmental consequences, especially on water systems connected to the Roper River.
Source ABC