Water missing from environment review
It’s rare for the federal government to step in and override the states when it comes to the environment. The Franklin Dam, Mining in Kakadu and stopping roads going through the Daintree forest are just some of the memorable times when they have. Today Environment Minister Tony Burke addressed the national press club to discuss the government’s response to a review of the national environment law which covers situations in which the federal government can intervene. Some of the key points he talked about include New national standards for accrediting environmental assessment and approval processes and Identifying and protecting ecosystems of national significance. But The Greens think there are some critical issues which have been left out. They’re worried about coal seam gas and how it will impact on our water systems across the country. And they think Tony Burke should have used this chance to make sure it doesn’t. Featured in story: Greens Environment Spokesperson, Larissa Waters.