The Great Barrier Reef, Is Coal Mining Endangering It?

One of the world's wonders, the great barrier reef,is facing destruction due to accelerating climate change, according to environmentalists. However, is coal mining to be blame?


The government of the Australian state of Queensland has approved a controversial coal mining project that scientists and environmental groups worry may harm the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest collection of coral formations.

Adani, the Indian energy company that will build and operate the mine, describes it as “a core component of Adani’s plans for delivering energy security in India, as well as pursing export opportunities in other Asian markets.”However, according to New Scientist,to handle those coal exports, the port at Abbott Point, which is next to the reef, would be expanded.It could potentially release plumes of soil and debris over the reef, damaging a delicate ecosystem.

Moreover,eventually burning all of that coal would put a lot of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. helping to drive the climate change that’s raising sea temperatures and causing the reef to deteriorate.

http://www.smh.com.au/business/mining-and-resources/adanis-galilee-basin-project-mine-leases-approved-20160403-gnx016.html

https://www.newscientist.com/article/2083116-anger-as-coal-mine-that-could-damage-great-barrier-reef-approved/