An application from Glencore to modify and extend operations at its Mt Owen mine has raised concerns over the government's commitment to reduce air pollution.
The company hopes to take advantage of the underground Integra mine tenements it acquired in 2015, which weren't factored into the Mining Operations Plan approved in 2016.
The proposed changes would enable recovery of an additional 35 million tonnes of coal and could extend the mine's life by up to six years.
With the Hunter already dealing with air quality issues, Lock The Gate's NSW Coordinator Georgina Woods says Glencore's application needs to be considered alongside ongoing local concerns.
"We have had dozens of air quality alerts in the Hunter already this year," Ms Woods told 2NURFM News.
"But still more open cut pits are being approved and growing in size in this region."
Ms Woods says coal mining companies seem to be pushing for approvals of mine extensions that aren't yet needed and suggests it could be a move to avoid potential future environmental protection measures.
"We're still waiting for the government to bring out its promised clean air strategy, we're still waiting for the EPA to introduce measures to make sure coal mining companies are paying for the air pollution they're creating." Ms Woods said.
In a statement, Glencore said there would be no changes to open cut mining methods, annual production or major infrastructure, and that the mitigation and management of potential air quality impacts would continue to be a strong focus for their operations.
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| Mount Owen mine. PHOTO: Thiess |
