Overview
- Expansions are deemed inconsistent with NSW’s legislated pathway of a 50% emissions cut by 2030, 70% by 2035, and net zero by 2050, as well as the Paris goals.
- The report projects fugitive methane from coal mines would jump by almost 50% by 2026–27 if current extensions proceed, with coal responsible for 96% of the resources sector’s emissions.
- Premier Chris Minns says approvals will not be halted immediately, citing coal’s role as the state’s largest export and the need to manage the transition in regions such as the Hunter.
- The commission urges planning-law reforms to require assessment of direct emissions and scope 3 impacts in approvals, noting only three mines have enforceable emissions limits and that 87% of NSW coal is exported.
- Industry leaders dismiss the analysis as flawed, while a separate Common Capital study says best-practice abatement at six high-emitting mines could nearly close the 2030 gap as recent court rulings tighten climate scrutiny of mine approvals.