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The coal mining industry has long been the cornerstone of the New South Wales Hunter region, employing thousands and driving the local economy. But as environmental concerns and government targets for emissions reductions loom large, the future of this industry is anything but certain. Can coal mining in NSW continue to thrive, or is it on the brink of a major transformation?
For a third-year apprentice, the hope is clear: "I hope that coal is extended for my working life because where I want to be in the future heavily involves coal mining." His employer, Hunter Valley Operations (HVO), plans to shut half its mining operations next year, with a complete halt by 2030. The impact is profound; jobs will be lost, families affected, and the ripple effect could be devastating.
The New South Wales government has set ambitious targets to reduce emissions by 70% by 2035, aiming for Net Zero by 2050. This shift is a game-changer for the coal industry, which has been a significant source of jobs and revenue. By 2040, it's expected that all four of NSW's coal-fired power stations and 32 of the state's 39 coal mines will close.
Despite these targets, the state's reliance on mining revenue is substantial, making it challenging for the government to wean itself off this income. HVO, owned by Chinese and Swiss investors, is seeking approval to extend its operations for another 25 years, proposing to mine until 2050. The economic benefit? A staggering $7.8 billion. But at what cost?
The extension faces scrutiny from environmental watchdogs, who argue that if mining continues, other sectors will have to work harder to reduce emissions. HVO's proposal promises to align with legislative targets, but critics argue it puts NSW's emissions targets and Australia's commitment to the Paris agreement at risk. Environmental groups are also challenging the project's impact on the Great Barrier Reef, adding another layer of uncertainty.
Not everyone in the Hunter region supports the continuation of coal mining. Farmer Ian Moore successfully fought off a proposed mine on his property, highlighting concerns about water supply and the impact on the Hunter River. "We shouldn't be tampering with a river anyway," he asserts.
In Singleton, a town near HVO's mines, the economic benefits of coal mining are undeniable. Local businesses rely on the industry, and the prospect of job losses is daunting. "What would Singleton be without money? A very quiet town with not a lot of shops," one local business owner laments.
As NSW grapples with its future in coal mining, the balance between economic necessity and environmental responsibility remains delicate. The decisions made in the coming months will shape the region's future, determining whether the lifeblood of the Hunter region will continue to flow or whether a new era is on the horizon.
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