Landmark Anvill Hill coal mine decision
A landmark ruling by NSW Justice Nicola Pain announced late yesterday on the Anvil Hill coal mine, could have major implications for the way companies factor in the cost to the environment. The decision means an independent panel will review the open cut mine near Musellbrook in the Hunter valley, before the project gets approval. The panel will assess the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions as well as noise and dust pollution. Green groups have applauded the decision, claiming it sets a ‘real precendent in environmental law. But Federal minister for the Environment Ian Campbell is less enthusiastic, labeling the ruling “dangerous and disastrous.” The Wire spoke with Peter Gray, activist with Rising Tide and Ian Ratcliff from the Environmental defenders office in Sydney about the broader implications of the ruling.