2008 Environment updates

Abstract

This paper provides a brief update on some of the key environmental issues that arose during 2008. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects dominated the referrals for petroleum related projects made under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 during the 2008 calendar year. The environmental aspects of these projects are summarised. The focus of the Federal Government on policy and legislation to meet greenhouse gas abatement commitments in response to climate change has resulted in the development of a number of key policies that will impact on petroleum and gas developments. This has also been reflected in policy and legislation at State levels. The first reporting period for the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007 started on 1 July 2008. Carbon capture and storage capability is seen as an essential component of any low emission energy future. Legislation and policy need to be delivered in a timeframe to meet low emission deadlines, as this provides the framework for the implementation of technology. Key legislation was debated and delivered during 2008, but the administrative and regulatory framework is still in preparation. Several projects for which geosequestration is a key component are summarised. Regulatory review has suggested that streamlining of approvals and removing duplication of approvals would decrease the significant delays some projects are experiencing. Regulation that is outcomes based rather than process driven and prescriptive will also facilitate more timely approval of projects.