¶ SOUTH32 has welcomed a “positive outcome” following its appeal of conditions imposed by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) on its Worsley Alumina expansion.
However, the WA Forest Alliance (WAFA) believes the mine expansion should not go ahead and that the conditions do not go far enough.
The EPA had given the expansion the go ahead earlier this year, but imposed a range of conditions following a five-year public environmental review.
South32 appealed the EPA assessment report, stating some of the conditions had gone “beyond reasonable measures for managing environmental risks”.
“Several conditions recommended by the WA EPA create significant operating challenges for Worsley Alumina and impact its long-term viability,” South32 said ahead of the appeal.
WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby last week issued his determination, finding the EPA’s conclusion the project could proceed subject to conditions was reasonable.
However, Mr Whitby allowed the appeals in part, agreeing that certain conditions should be altered based on arguments put forward.
South32 is seeking to expand its Boddington bauxite mining operation and develop new mining areas, paving the way for a 15-year extension of the Worsley refinery’s operating life and the creation of 150 jobs.
“The minister’s determination is a positive outcome for Worsley Alumina,” South32 stated.
WAFA stated the expansion will destroy up to 3855 hectares of the Northern Jarrah Forest and further threaten black cockatoos.
“Strip-mining this area provides minimal alumina for maximum damage to biodiversity and climate, making the Worsley mine one of the most environmentally destructive in Australia,” senior campaigner Jason Fowler said.
“In light of recent research showing it is not possible to rehabilitate a functioning jarrah forest ecosystem, Minister Whitby has succumbed to industry pressure and ignored advice from WA’s leading scientists.”
WAFA has called on the Federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek, to use her final say to reject the expansion plans.
South32 expects state approval of the project later this month, followed by federal approval in early 2025.