"A massive expansion of Coal Seam Gas (CSG) extraction putting our
environment and clean green brand at risk is not the solution to
the Government’s economic woes," said Gareth Hughes Green
Party energy spokesperson.
CSG permits covering 13,640 sq km have been granted in the last two
years with a further 9049 sq km awaiting approval. CSG is extracted
through wells drilled into coal seams. The initial phase of CSG
production usually involves the extraction of water from the coal
seams in order to reduce the water pressure and release gas from
the coal. Environmental problems associated with CSG include direct
pollution as well as lowering of ground water levels which impact
on other users.
"Drew Hutton the President of the Australian Lock the Gates
Alliance is in New Zealand speaking about the risk to our farmland,
water and health from drilling and fracking for coal seam gas.
"If we don’t learn from the Australian experience we risk
damage to the agricultural sector which is dependent on clean
water.
"There are numerous examples of Australian CSG projects causing
leaks, blow outs and other incidences of environmental pollution.
"We need to take a precautionary approach to CSG and not put our
environment and agricultural sector at risk.
"This Government’s economic agenda is focused on dirty
extractive industries. Coupled with the downgrading of the 100%
pure branding, to a sub brand in their Building Export Markets
document, highlights the Government’s economic strategy of
attacking our environment not building upon it.
