Woodside approved to drill until 2070

IN THE the face of extreme lobbying from environment groups federal environment minister Murray Watt has approved Woodside’s extension of its North West gas  project until  2070.

Mr Watt approved the extension on 28 May but imposed strict conditions about the impact of air emission levels from the operation of an expanded on-shore Karratha gas plant.

Mr Watt who visited Western Australia last week for discussions with the state government and industry and environment groups said he had taken into consideration rigorous scientific advice including submissions for a wide cross-section of the community before approving the development.

Woodside has 10 business days to comment on the terms of the extension before a final decision is made.

The North West gas project is Australia’s biggest and Woodside has been chasing approval for six years to extend its life out beyond 2030.

The approval has sparked controversy, with environmental groups raising concerns about climate impact and cultural heritage sites near the project.

Environmental group Greenpeace immediately denounced the proposed approval of the extension saying it would bring Woodside’s drilling a step closer to Scott Reef.

Greenpeace CEO David Ritter said Scott Reef was home to threatened species like pygmy blue whales and green sea turtles which would be threatened by the extension.

“The North West Shelf facility is one of Australia’s dirtiest and most polluting fossil fuel projects. This approval brings Woodside’s toxic gas plans closer to Scott Reef, holds back the clean energy transition underway in WA, and fuels growing climate damage in Australia and around the world,” Mr Ritter said.

However Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reaffirmed the government's support for gas, saying it is necessary to transition to renewables.

The extension does not involve opening new gas fields, but only allows continued operation of existing infrastructure.

Mr Watt acknowledged concerns about climate impact but noted that current environmental laws do not allow projects to be approved or rejected based on emissions alone.