Matt Kean warns climate crisis ‘isn’t someone else’s problem’ as largest coal project in NSW history greenlit

A senior climate adviser has raised concerns over the approval of the largest coal mining development in New South Wales (NSW) history, emphasizing that climate change is a pressing issue that affects everyone. Matt Kean, chair of the Climate Change Authority and former NSW treasurer and energy minister, criticized the state Independent Planning Commission for not considering the economic costs associated with climate change resulting from the coal extracted from the Hunter Valley Operations mine, which is set to operate until 2045.

The commission acknowledged that greenhouse gases emitted from the coal mined near Singleton would contribute to climate change, impacting the people, economy, and environment of the Hunter region, NSW, and globally. However, they concluded that the local benefits, such as employment opportunities, economic activity, and tax revenue, outweighed these impacts.

In a statement, NSW Labor Premier Chris Minns supported the decision, calling it "the right decision" and crucial for the state’s economy. He highlighted that the project supports thousands of jobs and generates billions in royalties for the government, although he did not address the anticipated climate impact during the interview.