SPONSORED BYPage 1 •Fossil Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November Fool 2019

KNITTING NANNAS AGAINST GAS Bulletin Fossil fools in the spotlight this week: A resource for people working to end the fossil fuel era in Australia

Fossilfool.com.au FFB 2:48 • 19 NOVEMBER 2019 Climate wars ignite By Eve Sinton Scores of fires, unprecedented in their ferocity and unexpected at this time of year, engulfed Australia in recent weeks. As the blazes raged out of control, they ignited a war of words over the coun- try’s climate policy. Meanwhile, former emergency services leaders revealed they had been trying to warn Prime Minister Scott Morrison about climate

Morrison has been ignoring the Emer- change-driven fire risks for months. gency Leaders for Climate Action’s requests to meet since April. Fires have incinerated over 1,650,000 destroyed around 500 homes. The toll hectares, taken at least four lives and incalculable. to wildlife and domestic livestock is The situation will continue through summer, with no rain relief in sight. Despite Australia’s long history of personnel are unanimous in describing bushfires,the scale of scientists the emergency and emergency as unprece - dented, and driven by global heating. Bushfire. Photo: CSIRO

PM won’t mention climate change made some of the most scathing Mullins has toured devastating Califor- - The Prime Minister’s ‘thoughts and climate change, even as their own rural remarksconstituents about were people the mostconcerned hard-hit. over nian fires to learn lessons for Austra climate’ reaction drew comparisons According to the Nats, only bloody lia’s worsening bushfire risk. prayers but let’s not talk about the of the planet are burning more and more and it is going to be harder to anything to do with global heating. He said that “the most fire-prone parts the USA. with the National Rifle Association’s inner-city lunatics believe the fires had playbook responses to gun deaths in A more constructive approach was provided by the Emergency Leaders fight these fires.” words. A selection of quotes appears for Climate Action’s Greg Mullins, season that I’ve seen since 1994 and it Politicianson page 2. attacked each other’s former NSW Fire and Rescue Commis- “We are coming into what I think is the most dangerous build-up to a fire Ironically, National Party members sioner and a Climate Councillor. • Continued p2

• P3: Equinor knocked • P4: Law fails to protect • P5: Minerals Council back by regulator ag land from coal pushed for new law Page 2 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 Climate wars ignite fiery debate War of words Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack (National): [Climate change concerns are generated by] “all those ... inner-city raving luna- tics. [People] don’t need the ravings of some pure, enlightened and woke capital city greenies at this time, when they’re trying to save their homes Barnaby Joyce (National): “I acknowledge that the two people who died were most likely people who voted for the Green party, so I am not going to start attacking them. That’s the last thing I want to do.” Later claiming his remarks had been misinterpreted, Joyce said he wanted to “punch the fucking lights out” of people who criticised the statement. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (Liberal): Said drought had contributed to the conditions when asked about the link be- tween climate change and the bushfires, “But I don’t think it’s appropriate to get into a political argument as to what the Mt Lindesay burns on the Queensland/New South Wales border. Photo: Daniel Rex causes are at this stage.” NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro • Continued from p1 (National): starting earlier and lasting longer than ‘‘For any bloody greenie or lefty out is atrocious that our national govern- now. Bushfire seasons are intensifying, there who wants to talk about climate ment doesn’t recognise that there is a change ... when communities in the disaster headed their way. everCEO Amandabefore, and McKenzie. we need to take this next 48 hours might lose more lives. seriously,” said the Climate Council’s If this is the time people want to talk “California has experienced devastat- California, alongside early-season about climate change, they are a bloody - disgrace.’’ “Late-season fires are burning in sands of homes lost. Without efforts ing fires year in, year out with thou - Mullins. MP Adam Bandt, (Greens): fires across much of Australia – and “I think the world needs to shift away this overlap is deeply worrying,” said - to both tackle climate change and man from coal and Australia, as the sixth copters used in Australia, except one age escalating fire danger, Australian largest polluter when you take into “The Federal Government is failing owned by New South Wales, are leased fires are getting riskier,” she said. account how much how much we export, All large firefighting planes and heli Australians on climate and failing to from North America. has to take a leading role. If you continue digging up coal and burning it, then this McKenzie. “With Australia and California burning kind of catastrophe is going to become secure Australians a safe future,” said “The Federal Government must listen more likely, and the question is: is that impossible, for us to lease vital per- to emergency leaders and stop ig- what we want?” atsonnel the same and equipment time, it’s difficult, from the if notUnited emergency services personnel. We Senator Jordon Steele-John (Greens): Speaking in the Senate – “How dare any noringneed urgent the risk emissions to communities reductions, and and Mullins is a founding member of of you suggest that in this moment at States,” he said. a coordinated national effort on coping Emergency Leaders for Climate Action, this time it is appropriate to be prosecut- with worsening extreme weather a coalition of emergency leaders from ing a piece of legislation with the aim of around the country calling for stronger propping up coal. You are no better than action on climate change. F a bunch of arsonists – borderline arson- disasters,” said Mullins. “We are seeing the impacts of inten- ists – and you should be ashamed.” sifying climate change in Australia Mayor of Glen Innes Severn Council Carol Sparks: “We are so impacted by drought and the lack of rain. It’s climate change, there’s no doubt about it. The whole of the country is going to be affected. We need fossilfool.com.au to take a serious look at our future.” Page 3 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 Equinor knocked back as toxic spill plans revealed Norwegian oil company Equinor has had its proposal to drill in the Environment that may be Great Australian Bight rejected for affected by an oil spill a second time, after again failing Graphic: Greenpeace to convince the safety regulator it can drill without putting the entire southern coast of Australia at risk of a catastrophic oil spill. On November 11 the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) requested Equinor revise its environ- ment plan, which was again judged to have fallen short of required safety standards. The regulator highlighted shortcomings across all major aspects of Equinor’s plan including preventing relevant persons and managing threats anto theaccident, Bight’s oil unique spill risk, marine consulting life. “This is the second time that NOPSE- gaps in its drilling plan despite the MAcompany has asked having Equinor more thanto fill two in the years climate change and for South Austra- and several attempts to get it right. BP was rejected multiple times, then mammals,who respond fish, to crustaceans, the spill. plankton, it gave up its plans to drill the Great Equinorlia’s economy.” plans to use toxic dispersants •corals, Download and the the report workers here: and fishers Australian Bight. Equinor should do https://www.greenpeace.org.au/wp/wp-content/ - uploads/2019/11/GPR5188-Equinor-Report-R2- Senior Campaigner Nathaniel Pelle peace released a report revealing that thesaid. same,” Greenpeace Australia Pacific Equinor’s knock-back came as Green- %C6%92-1-1.pdf piled over 350 tonnes of oil disper- Noah Schultz-Byard, Director of The sants,oil companies including in Corexit Australia 9500, have which stock Australia Institute, South Austra- are toxic chemicals used to clean up oil spills. However, Corexit is no longer permitted in Australia, because studies lia,South said: Australia “We know and that it’s becomingthis project in - show it harms people and marine life. doesn’tcreasingly make clear sense that economically the environmen for - Despite this, approval has been given for oil companies to spray the banned substance into the environment until Minimaltal case doesn’trevenue stack for Sth up Australia either.” existing stores are exhausted. “Australia Institute research has shown - that South Australia stands to gain just pile of Corexit dispersant, and others one tenth of one percent of total state Equinor plans to use Australia’s stock revenues from the project over its 40- spills in the Great Australian Bight, year lifetime. likeas well it, to as respond shipping to in catastrophic thousands of oil - tonnes of dispersants from overseas. However, Equinor’s Environment Plan - “Weopposed already to opening know that up 60%the Bight of Austra for oil sants will affect the environment. liansdrilling. and 68% of South Australians are has not defined how its use of disper “Australia Institute research demon- Following the Deepwater Horizon strates more than 10,000 South Aus- disaster in 2010, 6.9 million litres of F - dispersants were sprayed onto the ies and aquaculture rely on the Bight surface of the spill as well as injected directly into the erupting well-head. tralianand our jobs healthy in coastal oceans tourism, to survive. fisher A - Yet, this was done without prior lian Bight would be a disaster for the research to determine what levels of STOP exposure would be harmful to humans significantSouth Australian oil spill economy. in the Great Austra or marine life. WATER “Accelerating the transition to renew- able sources of energy, rather than Since 2010, studies have demon- MINING opening up new fossil fuel frontiers strated that Corexit and other disper- THE NEXT sants harm whales and other marine RESOURCES BATTLE makes sense both in terms of tackling Page 4 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 Law fails to protect ag land Fossil Fool marks Not a single mining or gas project allows us to grow virtually just about second anniversary slated for Queensland’s best agri- anything here in this part of the world. Fossil Fool Bulletin has been in cultural land has been refused since publication for two years since its - planning legislation was changed launch on November 20, 2017. cultural land, should be off-limits for five years ago, according to new mining, but we have the real prospect analysis. “This kind of country, this prime agri FFB 1.1 led with a story on the of this amazing area being opened up United Nations’ Australian Tribunal The Regional Planning Interests Act for coal extraction. into the human rights impacts of 2014 (Qld) (RPIA) was introduced by “We’ve seen what’s happened in the the Campbell Newman Government on Hunter Valley and to communities a promise to ‘address the power im- down there with the affect of mines on unconventional gas. The issue filled balance between farmers and resource A year later, FFB 2.1 comprised prime farmland and in close proximity only five pages. proponents and quite rightly prioritise 18 pages and featured the massive to townships and the same will happen emissions revealed by postcode in here if governments allow this to go and critical resource for Queensland’. agricultural activity on what is a finite However, a new expert legal review of the Queensland gasfields. lighting up their underground coal 42 resource approvals granted under Planahead.” to Grow campaign launched the RPIA since 2014 has found that not Leigh Creek Energy’s problems in - one has been rejected. Farmers and community groups across lia also featured in the edition. gasification project in South Austra Queensland are now coming together The Fossil Fool now has hundreds of These approvals have been granted for to launch a new initiative, called Plan resource activities in mapped prior- subscribers and a website, fossilfool.com.au. ity regional interest areas, including - priority agricultural areas, strategic toing Grow, areas seeking and other to reformimportant regional regional When publication commenced it cropping land, priority living areas, or planningassets are laws protected to ensure into that the future.key farm strategic environmental areas. which has had its own section in The campaign launch also comes at seemedevery edition, likely thatwould the result Adani in saga, the a time when Darling Downs farmers Mining strategic cropping land project falling over. But the power are concerned the Queensland Gov- of the fossil lobby has seen bulldoz- The proposed Moreton Resources coal ernment may approve a mining lease ers sent to the mine site. Its rightful mine on prime farmland at Kingaroy is for the New Acland coal expansion on Aboriginal owners have been ban- an example of how badly this regional some of the best farming land in the ished and persecuted in a repeat of planning system has failed. The mine state. the colonial history of the last 200 would sit on mapped Strategic Crop- The project has produced a short years. ping Land on some of Queensland’s video, which includes interviews with - Kingaroy. climate change with the election of ers from the Kingaroy and Wide Bay most fertile soils, just 6km from Australiacoal-fondler-in-chief, has gone backwards Scott Morri on- Burnettfarmers region.like Bjelke-Petersen, and oth son, as Prime Minister. Premier Joh and Senator Flo Bjel- Wide Bay Burnett cane farmer Judy John Bjelke-Petersen, son of former Plath said, “We want changes to Fossil Fool had to evacuate its bush- ke-Petersen, runs cattle and a bed and Even as the country burns – and communities have a stronger role in breakfastapproved, from the mine the family’s would be historic built Coalition and its fossil fuel sponsors regionalhelping our planning regions laws be theto make best theysure “Bethany” homestead. Should it be land HQ as fire approached – the can be. As this edition comes together, an plan ever-larger coal and gasfields. immediately adjacent to “Bethany”. “We want laws that protect our best uncontrolled 6,200-hectare bush- agricultural land, communities, and “This is a crazy place to put a mine,” “We’ve got some of the best soils in Bjelke-Petersen says. the region. Our soils and our climate F firerainfall still occurs. lurks over the hill and will ecological and cultural assets.” burn for months unless significant Meanwhile, the government rages at people wanting to discuss climate

sweeping the country. The Coal Truth: the fight to stop Adani, defeat the change, which fuels the fire disaster big polluters and reclaim our democracy ($29.99) Fossil Fool Bulletin has a continuing role in bearing witness to the big A timely and colourful contribution to one of the most important picture of fossil fuels, corporate struggles in our national history – over the future of the coal industry. power over governments, and fossil lobbyists interfering with the demo- Contributors include Tara Moss and Berndt Sellheim, Adrian cratic process. Burragubba, Lesley Hughes, John Quiggin, Hilary Bambrick, Ruchira Talukdar and Geoffrey At least FFB HQ hasn’t burned Cousins. Lead author is David Ritter, CEO, Greenpeace Australia Pacific. F down – yet. Page 5 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 Documents show how Minerals Mine rehabilitation fund welcomed Council pushed for law change Lock the Gate has welcomed the appointment of the Financial New freedom of information docu- due to its impact on greenhouse gas Provisioning Scheme Advisory ments reveal the Berejiklian Gov- emissions, the Planning Minister again Committee which will advise the ernment has reversed its position met with the Minerals Council, as well Queensland government on how on the consideration of downstream as Peabody and Glencore. funds will be spent on abandoned greenhouse gas emissions in coal Legislation to remove the requirement mine rehabilitation. mine decisions in six months, follow- to consider downstream emissions ing pressure from the NSW Minerals “The Committee will have an im- in decisions about coal mines and Council. portant role in ensuring the divi- - The documents show that during a cial assurance fund is directed to meeting involving Planning Minister gasfieldsYesterday, was 500 introduced people protested by Planning dendpriority from abandoned the new mining mines andfinan that Ministeragainst the Rob Bill Stokes in solidarity on 23 October. with in June the Government did not agree communities suffering the impacts of protecting the environment and the Robwith Stokes a coal lobbyand the proposal Minerals to Council remove rehabilitation work is effective in - downstream greenhouse gas emis- The Bill has been referred to a commit- sions from decisions about mining catastrophic bushfires. tee for consideration. public,’’ said Lock the Gate spokes “The dividend will see a modest person Rick Humphries. the Independent Planning Commis- increase in the existing abandoned projectssion. by planning authorities like Woods said, “These documents show mines budget. I say modest because Lockthat six the months Gate spokesperson ago the Government Georgina was comfortable with the long-stand- millions to address a multi-billion the inclusion of downstream emissions ing law ensuring the climate change wedollar are abandoned talking perhaps mine tensproblem. of Ain Departmentalthe consideration briefing of mining note defends proj- consequences of new coal mines in ects, arguing that: New South Wales are not ignored, only - these emissions are a consequence of the to completely reverse its position fol- “Ittion is might difficult be atas this it grows, stage butto predict any proposed development and are therefore a lowing sustained pressure and lobby- whatincrease the isFund’s welcome. financial We hope contribu this relevant consideration under the EP&A Act ing from the Minerals Council. – the weight to be given to them is a matter committee will ensure that these for the consent authority to determine. scarce funds are used effectively. Malign influence on public policy The history of abandoned mine re- The consideration of scope 3 emissions in development assessment processes is well “We’re dismayed that the mining lobby habilitation in Queensland has been established in many other jurisdictions and continues to exert this undue and characterised by poorly designed has been a factor in the assessment of min- band aid solutions that haven’t ing projects in NSW since the commence- New South Wales, on matters that have ment of the Mining SEPP. malignprofound influence consequences on public for policy all of usin worked. To address its concerns, the NSWMC may and while people across the state are in addressing the mining industry’s request the Mining SEPP be amended to re- suffering so terribly from the impacts “Weappalling see this legacy as a inmodest Queensland. first step move the requirement to assess downstream of climate change. It’s also pleasing to see the mining emissions. However, this would not prevent “The mining lobby does not does not - GHG emissions being considered and may tion via the new fund rather than create more uncertainty as it would still be want us to address the contribution open to a consent authority to consider such - industryjust the tax finally payer. making It’s an a important contribu matters. mate change, but that is indefensible. precedent. NSW coal makes to fueling deadly cli “On an issue of this importance, the “There are about 317 large aban- Barilaro met with Peabody & Glencore doned mines in Queensland, and jobs will be created as those sites Ministerial diary disclosures indicate broad public consultation. We all have are progressively rehabilitated. that Deputy Premier John Barilaro met Government should have undertaken with proponents of the United Wambo “We’re calling on the Government to “Improving mine rehabilitation coal mine Peabody and Glencore on 29 a stake in this. not only protects our local envi- July. ronments but it can also create F several thousand jobs in regional On September 18, the same day the withdraw this Bill.” Queensland. Bylong coal mine was refused in part “We will continue to advocate a modest 50 cents per tonne levy on the industry to raise $140 million per year to fully fund an SUBSCRIBE FREE CONTACT FFB: Email abandoned mine programme and FOSSIL FOOL BULLETIN [email protected] create thousands of jobs in regional

https://knitting-nannas.org/bulletins.php with your comments & tips Queensland.” F Page 6 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 WA’s LNG industry drives up pollution WA’s liquid natural gas (LNG) indus- try is single-handedly cancelling out the entire country’s efforts to tackle climate change and carbon pollution. A report commissioned by the Con- servation Council of Western Australia (CCWA) and the Clean State project, greenhouse gas emissions from WA’s isLNG the industry. first thorough Drawing investigation from industry of and EPA data, the report provides damning insights into how this indus- try alone impacts Australia’s ability to meet the Paris Agreement targets signed by Australia in 2015. The research shows that LNG produc- tion is WA’s biggest and fastest grow- ingDespite pollution efforts source, across rising the country from 9% to of thecut pollution,state’s total emissions in 2005 togrowth 36% today.from Woodside’s $7.6 billion Pluto LNG plant. Photo: Woodside the WA LNG industry is driving up Australia’s national pollution levels. Oil and gas giants including Chevron, Independent analysis by Reputex Ener- industry but a huge opportunity for Woodside, Shell and BP are responsi- gy has found that offsetting current WA communities and businesses to - LNG emissions in WA would create en regulation, and today operate with more than 4,000 jobs in the state, in change. sectors such as forestry, large-scale directly benefit from action on climate ble.no effective These firms controls have on lobbied their pollution.to weak The Clean State project was launched renewable energy and rangeland earlier this month. “Both State and Federal Governments regeneration—while improving WA’s have pledged to reduce emissions un- natural environment. “The aim is to help increase the com- der the international Paris Agreement munity’s understanding of the issues but WA LNG pollution is cancelling out LNG: Clean fuel myth so people can feel empowered about the savings that are being made across the country. There is no chance these “For decades our community has been targets will be met if LNG companies what to do. I really think many will are able to continue polluting without and gas companies that led us to be- betheir shocked environmental at the audacity impacts of andthese the misledlieve that by LNGclever is marketinga ‘clean fuel’ from and oil part polluters to shirk responsibility for author and Policy Analyst, Chantal of the climate solution, but that simply the government. limitsCaruso. or consequences,” said report is a myth. The reality is that WA LNG lack of control over this industry by production pollutes much more than “It’s time as a community we come The Morrison Government’s Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) is intended to Piers Verstegen, Director, Conservation Woodside and Chevron to come to the cut 375 million tonnes (Mt) of emis- ourCouncil coal of fired WA. power stations” said togethertable with and answers, call on rathercompanies than likepush - sions over its entire lifetime, however ing the cost of their pollution onto tax- these savings are cancelled out by the “At a time when the community are demanding action to address climate change that would create thousands of over the next 12 years. change, this research provides clear payers and blocking action on climate pollution from WA’s five LNG facilities evidence that reveals our states big- Govt subsidising pollution gest pollution problem. While all other jobs across the state,” Verstegen said.F states’ emissions are falling, WA’s have “Australian taxpayers are paying $4.55 risen and will continue to rise with- billion for the Morrison Government’s out action to address this issue by the climate policy, but this costly program State government and LNG companies. is essentially just subsidising pollution “The positive thing is, that if oil and Chevron which is cancelling out all of gas giants were required to offset from companies like Woodside and their emissions it would create around report author Chantal Caruso. the gains that are being made” said To address the problem, the WA En- 4,000LNG production new jobs – facilities. more than At entire a cost of vironmental Protection Authority has workforce currently employed at WA’s Acclaimed movie recommended new rules for LNG com- that pay little tax and no royalties, this now online: panies to reduce and offset the climate aroundis a tiny 2%impost of profits, for the for Oil companies and Gas https://www.thebentleyeffect.com/ damage caused by their pollution. Page 7 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019

David Rowe reproduced with permission: Inside the news https://www.facebook.com/david.rowe.5070 Newscorp has a couple of journal- ists and a photographer touring Adani’s Indian operations, gener- ating some puff-pieces. The older of Adani’s sons, Karan Adani, has been interviewed and stories focus on how good Australian coal is for impoverished Indians (p8-9).

endangered black-throated finch Thankswon The no Guardian’s doubt to Adani,Bird of the the Year competition, as Adani’s con- tractors are busy bulldozing the bird’s core habitat (p9). New analysis from Rystad Energy (p10) predicts closure of some of Gladstone’s LNG export facilities within a decade, as production

Gas resources have been over-esti- declinesmated and in over-sold,Queensland’s and gasfields. as a result there will be some very expensive stranded assets on Curtis Island. New Zealand has passed an histor- ic zero-carbon bill (p12), commit- ting the nation to eliminate carbon emissions by 2050. The bill passed fossilfool.com.au by 119-1, and the country’s climate Every edition of Fossil Fool Bulletin • Feature stories • Links • Subscribe change minister (they have one!) compared it to New Zealand’s past leadership on votes for women and nuclear disarmament. Prime Min- GREEN PIGEON GRAPHICSGREEN PIGEON GRAPHICSGREEN PIGEONister Jacinda GRAPHICS Ardern (can we steal her?) said the bill put the country PROUD SUPPORTER OF Qantas has also committed to zero “on the right side of history”. THE FOSSIL FOOL BULLETIN emissions by 2050 (p12). The current Australian bushfire GreenPigeonGraphics [email protected] crisis generated a storm of climate denial and criticism of ‘greenies’ from Coalition politician, ampli- Print Mailchimp Social Web Murdoch media. The Fossil Fool’s Fossil Fool Bulletin is free to read, but not fiedrecord with of hatefulevents (p11-16)comment has in the not Fossil Fool free to produce. The editor works given oxygen to Murdoch’s nastiest Bulletin un-waged, but costs include news columnists. subscriptions, computer, software, Fossil enthusiast Matt Canavan, Published by Eve Sinton internet and office expenses. PO Box 555, Mullumbimby, unfazed by the increasing evidence NSW 2482, Australia Donations to publisher Focus Publications of climate crisis, is calling for a are invited. shale fracking revolution in the Fossil Fool Bulletin Whether a one-off or regular, $5 or $500, were made as he was entertained [email protected] you can help keep this publication in Northernby Chevron Territory., on a visit His to remarks the Perm - [email protected] action. ian Basin in Texas. (Note: donations are not tax deductible.) To subscribe free, click here: Canavan is also pushing for more https://knitting-nannas.org/bulletins.php government funding of carbon Bank details: Focus Publications capture and storage BSB: 062 578 Account number: 10343666 an approach from Glencore – the fossil and ABN: 24857882603 fuelSantos lobby’s (p16). wet dream – following $ F Page 8 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 In the news this week This week Fossil Fool Bulletin has summarised 40,300 words of news for your convenience. Click on the links to view original articles. (Subscriptions may be required) THE ADANI SAGA https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/adani- awards-40-million-contract-to-decmil-as-part-of-construc- - e16a54603fdbd4a0 tion-of-its-200km-railway/news-story/ec8337e15150e7af Adani awards $40 million contract to Decmil as part of construction of its 200km railway Michael Wray, Courier-Mail, 08/11/2019 Adani’s Carmichael coal mine has signed a $40 million contract to deliver workers camps for construction of its ASX-listed mining contractor Dec- 200km railway. mil will design and construct three temporary camps along the Adani rail corridor. be made available as a result of the Adanicontract. has confirmed 40 jobs will be

https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/crime- - tivists/news-story/39555580af8f256c979c089bdbc38011 and-justice/adani-judges-slash-thousands-off-fines-of-ac Adani: Judges slash thousands off fines of activists Renee Viellaris, Courier-Mail, 09/11/2019 Judges are dramatically reducing the - Anaesthetist Dr Peter Kuestler locked on to stop work at Adani’s Carmichael mine work camp on sands of dollars on appeal, and have November 13, with health professionals responding to the climate and highlighting the health finesordered of anti-Adani police to pay activists the costs by thou of crisis caused by the climate crisis. Photo: FLAC protesters who pleaded guilty. North Queensland magistrates have Karan Adani declared that after nine ue to surge over the coming decade as collectively slapped 10 anti-Adani pro- everyday Indians sought to improve their standard of living. appeal in District Courts, the offenders yearscontroversial of setbacks, Carmichael the goal megamine was to to testers with $82,000 in fines, but on sendIndia thewithin first about coal from a year. the company’s https://www.couriermail.com.au/business/adanis-coal-ex- reduction of $60,000. ports-from-queensland-could-be-a-lifechanger-for-indias- have had their fines cut to $22,000 – a poor/news-story/2abfe7d41f6bab4176c5eb30895e8920 • The Courier-Mail goes on to list the names https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/adani- and financial details of eight protesters whose scion-says-coal-essential-to-lifting-indians-out-of-poverty/ news-story/e3f9ee94c21de14dc5638b28f98922fc Adani’s coal exports from Queensland fines had been reduced. could be a life-changer for India’s poor Adani scion says coal essential to lifting Hayden Johnson, Courier-Mail, 15/11/2019 https://www.couriermail.com.au/business/adani-a-world- Indians out of poverty leader-in-reducing-emissions-says-ports-ceo/news-story/ BenPackham, Aus, 14/11/2019 Adanifb3992a39cc2185979a194f438a97d76 a world leader in reducing One of Adani’s top executives has Inconnection A small, poverty-stricken of a light bulb is havingvillage ona emissions, says ports CEO accused Australian critics of its thelife-changing outskirts ofeffect Mumbai on locals. the simple Carmichael coal mine of ignoring the Hayden Johnson, Courier-Mail, 15/11/2019 The Courier-Mail needs of up to 300 million Indians colony yesterday, where Queensland living without electricity as the nation batch of Queensland coal to India by pushes to more than triple its power toured the Aarey Milk small campus. Adani2021, andhas pledgedhas hit out to shipat green its first activists consumption and lift its people from by declaring it is a global leader in poverty. •coal The willwriter help is in keep India theas a lightsguest of on the in the reducing carbon emissions. Confederation of Indian Industry. In a rare and wide-ranging interview ports division and son of founder at the company’s headquarters in Karan Adani – head of the company’s Ahmedabad, India, Adani Ports CEO Australian coal in India would contin- Gautam Adani – said demand for Page 9 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/ mindbending-reality-that-coal-and-renewables-can-ex- way that has negatively affected local ist-in-perfect-complementarity/news-story/44e- COAL ROCKS ON 417a5337b6f15fd7504d8663d2892 https://www.sconeadvocate.com.au/story/6474011/dart- Mind-bending reality that coal and farmers and irrigators”. brook-decision-to-be-appealed/Australian Pacific Coal announces it https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/regional/new- renewables can exist in perfect hope-meets-with-government-reps-over-future-of-mine/ news-story/4269bffcf0860636ecbb28266417e79b complementarity will appeal the IPC Dartbrook underground decision Tony Vermeer, Daily Telegraph, 15/11/2019 New Hope confident Acland coal mine’s Louise Nichols, Scone Advocate, 04/11/2019 under-fire third stage will go ahead For any coal-fearing, green-loving envi- ronmental warrior the drive to Adani’s - Matthew Newton, Chronicle, 06/11/2019 ground mine near Aberdeen announce sprawling port and power complex on New Hope Group executives met with Thethey owners will appeal of the the Dartbrook Independent under State Government representatives impressions to be a journey into the Planning Commission’s (IPC) determi- nation. India’s west coast must appear on first yesterday to discuss the future of New Looming from the desolate salt pan up The determination handed down on andAcland the Coal Co-ordinator Mine’s Stage General’s 3 project. office heart of darkness. August 9 this year allowed the mine to New Hope Group chief development one but two fully functional and rela- reopen but it could only operate until ahead are the chimney stacks of not conference this morning to discuss officerthe recent Ben Queensland Armitage will Supreme front a Courtmedia • The author travelled to India as a guest of 2022of the –project. a decision that would have thetively Confederation new coal-fired of Indian power Industry. stations. of Appeal decision, which dismissed affected the overall financial viability The mine has been in care and mainte- nance since 2006 and was sold by min- Alliance and granted orders requested ing giant Anglo American to Australian anby Newappeal Acland by the Coal. Oakey Coal Action New Hope believes the decision means with no mining experience. there is now nothing standing in the Pacific Coal (AQC) in 2016 - a company The Commissioners refused to extend way for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy minister Dr Anthony Lynham years until 2027 as requested by AQC from approving the project’s mining thedue lifeto questions of the mine concerning for further the five eco - lease and associated water licence. nomic viability of the project. Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Asso- Paul King urged against the granting ciation has previously described the Oakeyof approvals Coal Action for the Alliance mine, claiming secretary reopening of the underground mine as “some of the best agricultural land in a Trojan horse for the development of https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/ an open cut mine on the site. allowed to proceed. as-tawny-frogmouth-comes-second the state would be destroyed” if it was nov/15/black-throated-finch-wins-2019-bird-of-the-year- https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-05/maules- https://www.smh.com.au/environment/sustainability/ Black-throated finch wins 2019 bird of new-coal-projects-in-sydney-s-catchment-on-hold-after- the year with tawny frogmouth second use/11658718 panel-s-reports-20191109-p538ys.html creek-coal-mine-under-investigation-again-over-water- Naaman Zhou, Guardian, 15/11/2019 Controversial Maules Creek coal mine New coal projects in Sydney’s catchment under investigation again over on hold after panel’s reports voted Australian bird of the year for water use Peter Hannam, SMH, 11/11/2019 The2019, black-throated beating the tawny finch frogmouthhas been in Andy Park & Alex McDonald, ABC, 05/11/2019 a landslide. The controversial Whitehaven Coal new approvals for coal mining under - The Berejiklian government will pause- is under threat from the expansion of tigated again, this time following til well into next year as it considers an Thethe Adani highly Carmichael endangered coalmine, finch, which was Maulescomplaints Creek about mine its is groundwater being inves use Sydney’sadvisory panel’sdrinking report water into catchment the impact un which the company denies. of mining on water supplies. The company has already been found Underground mining in the catchment backedthe climate by a emergency highly organised and opposition online by the NSW regulator to have allegedly has become particularly controversial campaignto the mine. linking it to deforestation, during the drought as the levels of Sean Dooley from BirdLife Australia Sydney’s dams drop faster than at any The groundwater investigation comes taken surface water unlawfully. time since as least 1940 even with the victory was well-deserved. city’s desalination plant at full tilt. Phil Laird, who are both members of paid tribute to the finch and said the “As someone who has gone out and as no surprise to brothers Rick and The panel found subsidence following seen that bird in nature, they are and who farm near the mine. coal extraction and the subsequent subtly stunning. No illustration I have the Maules Creek Community Council fracturing of the sandstones reaching They say their bore water has run dry. seen has done justice to the beauty of the surface about 400 metres above the bird in real life. They are a literal may result in water losses of as much water than it is allowed. as 8 million litres per day. Whitehaven Coal denies taking more In a statement to 7.30, it also rejected breath-taker when you see them.” that it had contributed to “ground- water drawdowns in the area in any Page 10 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/ https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/mining-ener- gy/queensland-coal-seam-gas-shortfall-threatening-lng-ex- Jay Weatherill is heading the review, climate-crisis-study ports-says-rystad/news-story/d0f9c2ec14c5cbbf15778e2f- 95d724c8 nov/15/methane-emissions-from-coal-mines-could-stoke- June alongside a decision to increase Methane emissions from coalmines Queensland coal seam gas shortfall announcedthe petroleum by Treasurerroyalty rate Jackie from Trad 10 per in could stoke climate crisis – study threatening LNG exports, says Rystad cent to 12.5 per cent, netting the state Jillian Ambrose, Guardian, 15/11/2019 an extra $476 million over four years. Perry Williams, Aus, 07/11/2019 Queensland gas producers may be Weatherill’s review will be handed to forced to cut exports from its $84 the State by the end of the year. Thethe global methane climate emissions crisis atleaking the same from billion LNG industry and shut down therate world’s as the shipping coalmines and could aviation be stoking in- production units in the next decade https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-11/off- dustries combined. shore-oil-rig-timor-sea-operations-cease-environment-safe- due to falling coal seam gas production ty/11691040 Coalmines are belching millions of in the state, consultancy Rystad tonnes of methane into the atmo- Energy has warned. Taxpayers could face $200m bill if buyer - cannot be found for rust-riddled Supplies from producing or under-de- velopment coal seam gas projects in oil platform spherethreat, accordingunchecked, to because new research. policymak Queensland are set to fall by 60 per Tom Iggulden, ABC, 11/11/2019 ers have overlooked the rising climate The International Energy Agency (IEA) cent in the next 10 years. estimated that the amount of methane in Australia’s northern waters and seeping from new and disused Material reductions in export volumes will need to be made from 2026 with Antaxpayers environmental might be time forced bomb to stump is ticking up coalmines may have reached just $200 million to defuse it. under 40m tonnes last year. LNG trains closing by 2028 unless multi-trillion cubic feet of gas can be In July, regulators shut down one of the country’s biggest offshore oil plat- even price of less than $8 a gigajoule, forms, the Northern Endeavour, after OIL & GAS LEAKS discoveredRystad reported. and developed at a break- https://www.northerndailyleader.com.au/story/6476114/ questions-over-gas-pipelines-failure-to-advertise-chang- es-locally/ https://www.smh.com.au/national/the-myth-of-clean-gas- finding it riddled with rust, lacking a - Questions over Hunter-Queensland gas p5383n.html proper fire suppression system and pipeline’s failure to advertise changes report-attacks-petroleum-industry-messaging-20191106- “risks of a major accident event occur That forced the company which owns ‘The myth of clean gas’: Report attacks ring”. locally in Gunnedah and Liverpool Plains it, Northern Oil and Gas, into voluntary Jamieson Murphy, Northern Daily Leader, petroleum industry messaging administration. 06/11/2019 Emma Young, SMH, 07/11/2019 The administrator, KPMG, has until Questions have been raised why the company behind a proposed $1-billion of greenhouse gas emissions from gas pipeline did not placed adverts in A report describing a “runaway train” next$50 million week to to find repair a new the owner vessel whoat a local newspapers, as required by the will likely need to spend an estimated state’s planning laws, to notify resi- Western Australia’s five operating and two planned LNG plants has attacked If a buyer cannot be found, the Lam- The Conservation Council of WA/Clean dockyard in Darwin. However, the state government and the industry rhetoric around “clean gas”. dents of modifications to the project. State report released on Thursday uses nautical miles north-west of Darwin, company behind the project say the emissions data sourced from docu- inariamay need and toCorallina be decommissioned. oilfields, 250 obligation was met, as an advert was ments submitted to the Environmental placed in a state-wide paper, which Protection Authority regarding Wood- Several subsea wellheads would need circulates in the local region. side’s North West Shelf and Pluto, to be capped to prevent some 24 mil- Chevron’s Gorgon and Wheatstone lion barrels of crude oil escaping into Hunter Gas Pipeline, the company the Timor Sea. behind the project, placed ads in all the - The cost is estimated at $200 million, metre pipeline route - except for those andParis Shell’s promises. Prelude – and says these which the federal government may localin the newspapers Gunnedah and along Liverpool the 700-kilo Plains projects alone are breaking Australia’s need to pay for.

Theaccount report life-cycle said claims emissions gas was (including 50% https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/ shiresrecently – granted.advertising its plan to apply cleanerextraction, than processing, coal did not transport, take into stor - nov/11/norway-set-to-gain-more-from-drilling-in-great- for a five-year extension, which was australian-bight-than-australia Breeza farmer Peter Wills was disap- age and burning to create energy). pointed the Gunnedah and Liverpool Norway set to gain more from drilling in Great Australian Bight than Australia Shire LGAs were not treated the same https://www.themercury.com.au/news/national/exla- bor-premier-to-lead-qld-gas-royalties-review/news-sto- as other regions. ry/72632bc5f8dd1c0426bffa86b5dec407 Paul Karp, Guardian, 11/11/2019 Of the almost 200 submissions regard- The Norwegian government stands to Ex-Labor premier to lead Qld gas gain $400m more from drilling in the was in favour - Kurri Kurri based busi- royalties review Great Australian Bight than the South ingness the Weston five-year Aluminium, extension, which only wasone Sarah Vogler, Courier-Mail, 08/11/2019 Australian and federal governments founded by Mr Simonian, who is also A former Labor premier has been combined, according to a new study by the company’s managing director. appointed to lead a review into the Australia Institute Queensland’s gas royalties regime. The Australia Institute warns it will Former South Australian premier likely require decades of subsidies Page 11 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 because during the exploration phase production would be minimal, paying no royalties or taxes. The modelling appears to suggest that no royalties will be paid, which would mean that oil and gas lies in common- wealth waters and that “the common- wealth will give away Australia’s oil for free”. is-getting-closer-but-now-it-s-driven-by-waning-demand- https://www.theage.com.au/business/markets/peak-oil-20191111-p539dw.html ‘Peak oil’ is getting closer, but now it’s driven by waning demand Stephen Bartholomeusz, Age, 11/11/2019

- Leigh Creek Energy’s AGM will be targeted by protesters this week. Fortion decades would start the debatesto decline. about Now “peak it’s oil”about were when about demand the moment starts to produc fall away LEIGH CK STINK and that moment appears to be draw- NUKE MADNESS https://indaily.com.au/news/business/2019/11/04/leigh- https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-07/majori- ing closer. - ty/11680774 - Leighcreek-energy-hints-at-chinese-takeover/ Creek Energy hints at ty-of-kimba-residents-support-nuclear-waste-facili More than 60% of Kimba locals support troleum Exporting Companies (OPEC), Chinese takeover the producers’ cartel led by the Saudis, nuclear waste dump in their region Last week the Organisation of the Pe Bension Siebert, InDaily, 04/11/2019 Casey Briggs, ABC, 07/11/2019 sees growth in demand rising but at a A clear majority of Kimba residents issueddeclining its rateannual until World it becomes Oil Outlook. negligi It- journalists to “draw their own conclu- ble around 2040. Leigh Creek Energy has encouraged - have voted in favour of a nuclear waste over of the South Australian company. dump being built in their region. The International Energy Agency has sions” about a potential Chinese take It is understood that an investment Federal Resources Minister Matthew as the late 2020s or in the 2030s. - Canavan has released the results of a month-long indicative postal ballot, said peak demand could occur as early tential acquisition of LCK for a Chinese - bankcompany. in Hong Kong is conducting a po er depends on the response of the de- papers were in favour of the dump. Whetherveloped economies peak oil comes to climate sooner change or lat confirming 61.6% of the 734 ballot and the rate at which road transport is Only local residents were permitted HYDROGEN HYPE to vote in the ballot, infuriating the re- https://www.afr.com/policy/energy-and-climate/there-is- gion’s native titleholders, the Barngar- no-magic-hydrogen-bullet-coming-20191106-p537t6 la people. They said they had also run electrified. https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2019-11-15/inpex- There is no magic their own vote through an indepen- celebrates-100-lng-shipments-from-darwin/11707372 hydrogen bullet coming dent company, and wanted the results Inpex celebrates 100th shipment of LNG Matthew Warren, AFR, 07/11/2019 since Ichthys project began production When energy ministers meet later this included in the official vote. Matt Brann, ABC, 15/11/2019 month, one of the few things they’re CLIMATE CRISIS https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/nsw-should-be- alarmed-former-judge-slams-planning-laws-20191105- Darwin Harbour have become a com- p537j4.html LNGmon tankerssight in slowingthe Northern moving Territory’s out of likelyto the toimminent agree upon release is hydrogen. of a national More capital, with multiple vessels sailing to specifically,hydrogen strategy a ringing in Australia.endorsement ‘NSW should be alarmed’: former judge slams planning laws losses. Electrolysis is capital expensive Alexandra Smith, SMH, 06/11/2019 export markets on a weekly basis. setting sail today was extra-special for Hydrogen has high costs and efficiency A former Supreme Court judge and But the 288-metre-long Pacific Arcadia energy used. environmental law expert has warned and wastes about 40% of the electrical 100th shipment since the $55 billion Renewable hydrogen remains pro- NSW’s push to stop greenhouse gas InpexIchthys – projectit was the began Japanese producing company’s gas in hibitively expensive; once produced, emissions being considered in mining October last year. decisions is a “dangerous retrograde

hydrogen is difficult to store and move. Paul Stein, QC, who was also on the STOP WATER MINING step”. Continuinghighly desirable to explore in a carbon-con ways to make- Land and Environment Court bench THE NEXT RESOURCES BATTLE thestrained hydrogen world. supply Governments chain work cannot is for more than 12 years, says “NSW promise a hydrogen future as a solu- tion to climate change. proposed changes to so-called scope 3 residentsemissions. should be alarmed” by Page 12 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019

- company to quit industry associations introduced legislation to stop consent ing from curbing human population to seen as opposing action on climate Planningconditions Minister relating Rob to greenhouse Stokes has leavingsuffering” fossil and fuels calling in thefor ground.action rang change. gas emissions from export coal being The unusual international collabora- The resolution, targeting BHP’s imposed on NSW mining projects. tion, published in BioScience Journal, membership of the Minerals Council - of Australia and coal-industry group lian scientists, including 10 current Butthe IndependentMr Stein described Planning attacks Commission on wasor ex-CSIRO backed byresearchers. more than Signatories 350 Austra of proxy votes, despite being opposed “independentand the Land and institutions”, Environment including Court hailed from 153 countries. Coal21by the company’s received the board. support of 29.5%

He said the government’s changes to https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/ https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/nov/07/ as “deplorable”. nov/05/climate-crisis-11000-scientists-warn-of-un- ardern-says-new-zealand-on-right-side-of-history-as-mps- scope 3 emission showed it had its told-suffering pass-zero-carbon-bill change. Climate crisis: 11,000 scientists warn of Ardern says New Zealand on ‘right side of “head in the sand” over global climate ‘untold suffering’ history’ as MPs pass zero-carbon bill Damian Carrington, Guardian, 06/11/2019 Eleanor Ainge, Guardian, 07/11/2019 https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-06/for- - es/11677760 The world’s people face “untold mer-fire-chief-worried-about-firefighting-resourc legislation has passed in New Zealand As fire seasons overlap in Australia unless there are major transforma- Jacindaparliament, Ardern’s with landmarkhistoric cross-party climate and California, sharing firefighting sufferingtions to global due to society, the climate according crisis” to a support, committing the nation to resources will only get harder reduce its carbon emissions to zero by Zoe Daniel & Amy Donaldson, ABC, scientists. 2050 and meet its commitments under 06/11/2019 stark warning from more than 11,000 the Paris climate accords. “We declare clearly and unequivocally Key points: that planet Earth is facing a climate The bill passed 119 votes to one. - Climate change minister James Shaw tainable future, we must change how overlap with Australia’s, which will said the bill, which commits New Zea- we live. [This] entails major transfor- • California’s fire season is starting to emergency,” it states. “To secure a sus resources mations in the ways our global society functions and interacts with natural make it harder to share firefighting - landthe island to keeping country global of nearly warming 5 million below ing for more resources in Australia 1.5to adapt degrees, too, provided and prepare a framework for the cli -for mate emergency. • Former fire chief Greg Mullins is call ecosystems.” • A group of former senior emergency https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/ chiefs are trying to meet with Scott “We’ve led the world before in nuclear disarmament and in votes for women, Morrison to discuss the issue nov/06/banks-boosted-new-lending-to-fossil-fuel-projects- Bankslast-year-figures-show boosted new lending to fossil fuel Mullins is a member of the Climate projects last year, figures show Prime minister Jacinda Ardern told Council and Emergency Leaders for now we are leading again.” Shaw said. Climate Action. Ben Smee, Guardian, 06/11/2019 MPs New Zealand was on the “right He is not giving up on his push for a - believe and continue to stand by the meeting with Morrison. creased their new lending to fossil fuel sidestatement of history”. that climate She said: change “I absolutely is the Twoprojects of Australia’s last year despite big four having banks madein biggest challenge of our time. public commitments to support the goals of the Paris climate agreement, “We’re coming into what I think is the https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/respon- sible-thing-to-do-qantas-pledges-zero-net-emissions-by- mostI’ve seen dangerous since 1994, fire season when NSW – the was most shows. 2050-20191110-p5394d.html dangerous build-up to a fire season analysis of their financial dealings - ‘Responsible thing to do’: Qantas “And there’s not even platitudes, devastated,” he said. es says both ANZ and Westpac poured pledges zero net emissions by 2050 there’s just closed doors and closed The investor action group Market Forc minds as far as I’m concerned. projects during 2018-19 in a way that Patrick Hatch, SMH, 11/11/2019 “That’s atrocious that our national gov- significant new money into fossil fuel Qantas will pledge to cut its net carbon ernment doesn’t recognise that there’s were not being factored into individual a disaster heading their way. So, again, indicatedinvestment the decisions. banks’ lofty climate goals emissionstime when to aviation zero by is 2050, under breaking unprece - ranksdented with scrutiny its global over airlineits contribution peers at a https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/companies/ please listen, Prime Minister.” climate-warriors-target-bhp-over-industry-associations/ to climate change. https://www.smh.com.au/environment/climate-change/ news-story/04d25f46b48218a55310da11444bc362 untold-suffering-global-scientists-warn-of-climate-emer- Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce said gency-20191105-p537mt.html BHP hit with landmark green vote over the goals would result in the airline ‘Untold suffering’: Global scientists warn climate protest group, including budget arm Jetstar, of climate emergency Nick Evans, Aus, 07/11/2019 capping net emissions at their current level of about 12 million tonnes from Peter Hannam, SMH, 06/11/2019 Australia’s corporate climate warriors next year and then cut it gradually over More than 11,000 scientists from are on the march after winning the the next 30 years. around the world have declared a “cli- support of almost a third of the votes cast at BHP’s annual shareholder meeting for a motion calling on the mate emergency”, warning of “untold Page 13 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/a-local-mayor- can-see-we-face-a-climate-emergency-why-can-t-the-pm- 20191110-p5393b.html FOSSIL POLITICS https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/nov/05/coali- normal cycle” or “We’ve had fires like tion-warned-outlawing-climate-boycotts-could-breach-con- A local mayor can see we face a climate stitution this before”, smile politely and walk emergency, why can’t the PM? •away, Greg Mullinsbecause is athey former don’t Fire know and Rescue what Coalition warned outlawing climate Ian Dunlop, SMH, 10/11/2019 NSWthey’re commissioner talking about. and a councillor on the boycotts could breach constitution Climate Council. Despite soaring rhetoric about Austra- Paul Karp, Guardian, 05/11/2019 lian values and the absolute priority Academics have warned that changes of securing the future of the Austra- https://www.smh.com.au/national/australians-don-t- to competition law to shut down envi- lian people, it is crystal clear that the climate-change-20191114-p53amr.html federal government, the opposition want-to-die-from-fires-rising-risk-of-poor-health-due-to- ronmental boycotts could breach the and much of our corporate and media Australians don’t want to die from fires’: constitution, as some Coalition MPs leadership have absolutely no under- rising risk of poor health due to are expressing nervousness privately standing of the greatest threat facing climate change about Scott Morrison signalling a con- this country, namely human-induced Rachel Clun, SMH, 14/11/2019 climate change. Having dug themselves The attorney-general Christian Porter a massive climate denial hole, and The federal government’s failure to troversial crackdown last week. address the damaging health effects Forces as the intended target of the are now intent on dragging the rest of of climate change including extreme hasCoalition’s nominated efforts activist to temper group activism, Market lackingthe community the honesty down to with climb them. out, they - Not so the mayor of Glen Innes Severn ive speech in Brisbane last Friday. heatwavesmajor report and warn. intense bushfires is flagged by Morrison during a combat Council. Coming to grips with the loss putting lives at risk, the authors of a University of New South Wales law of lives and properties in her com- There was little evidence to suggest school dean Prof George Williams said Australia is acting effectively to miti- implied freedom of political communi- munityemergency in this we weekend’s face. “We are devastating so impact - physical and mental health, environ- thecation move in the would constitution. risk breaching the fires, Carol Sparks had no doubt of the gatemental the and multiple health heat-related experts wrote risks in for said. “It’s climate change, there’s no the Medical Journal of Australia-Lan- eddoubt by drought about it. and The the whole lack of of the rain,” coun she- cet Countdown on Health and Climate Julien Vincent, said it was now clear try is going to be affected. We need to Change report. Thethe government chief executive “wants of Market to … stop Forces, us Australian researchers from the inter- • Ian Dunlop was formerly an international national consortium of 120 experts oil,take gas a andserious coal industrylook at executive,our future.” chair goingmeans about of encouraging our work”, companies but that the to from 35 institutions urged the govern- workpursue was better an “entirely environmental legitimate” out- of the Australian Coal Association and chief ment to transition from fossil fuels to executive of the Australian Institute of comes. Company Directors. renewable energy.

https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/the-prime- https://www.smh.com.au/national/this-is-not-normal- https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/ nov/15/this-is-climate-changed-pray-for-rain-pray-harder- 20191104-p537bj.html p5395e.html for-leadership minister-s-anti-protest-laws-are-attacks-on-investors-too- what-s-different-about-the-nsw-mega-fires-20191110- The Prime Minister’s anti-protest laws This is climate changed. Pray for rain. This is not normal: what’s different about are attacks on investors too the NSW mega fires Pray harder for leadership Jenna Price, SMH, 05/11/2019 Greg Mullins, SMH, 11/11/2019 Badja Sparks, Guardian, 15/11/2019 Politicians are frightening. Here are I write this piece reluctantly, because I have been a member of the Wytaliba two good examples. The Prime Minis- community near Glen Innes for 40 ter Scott Morrison has announced he is unaccounted for; people have lost years. planning to introduce laws which will thereloved areones; still and possible hundreds fire ofvictims families Wytaliba has lost two lives and more stop modern environmental activism. have lost their homes. My heart goes than half our homes, our school, our The Leader of the Opposition has out to them. I don’t want to detract in bridge, our wildlife and 40 years of described the Prime Minister’s words any way from the vital safety messages as a thought bubble. They are both - our paradise is now ash. dangerous. One wants to limit your work to build a community. What was liberty, the other trivialises Morrison’s that our fire commissioners and Pre plans. These are the people who are mier will be making about Tuesday’s burned most of our property. It didn’t Unprecedented dryness; reductions our political leaders. fire potential. ... Wematter. had Ita bushfireburned again. two months ago that in long-term rainfall; low humidity; This is climate changed. We’re in the high temperatures; wind velocities; https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/ worst drought recorded. A million nov/09/global-funds-management-giant-rejects-scott-mor- ferocity; instances of pyro-convective hectares of bush has burned. Barnaby fire danger indices; fire spread and says it’s Greens voters and the sun’s Globalrisons-attack-on-activist-investors funds management giant rejects Scott Morrison’s attack on activist fires (fire storms – making their own Pray for rain. Pray harder for leader- investors weather);long-term earlytrend starts driven and by latea warming, finishes magnetic field. ship. Ben Butler, Guardian, 09/11/2019 todrying bushfire climate. seasons. The numbersAn established don’t lie, and the science is clear. • Badja Sparks is a longtime resident of Global funds management giant Aber- Wytaliba. His home was badly damaged in last deen Standard Investments has reject- If anyone tells you, “This is part of a Friday’s fires ed prime minister’s Scott Morrison’s Page 14 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019 call for companies to listen to “quiet chief-calls-out-pm-over-refusal-of-meeting/11705330 - of high winds and low humidity that https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-14/former-fire- Asthreaten firefighters some bracedof the worst for the condi arrival- Former fire chiefs ‘tried to warn Scott shareholders”on activist investors as part and of athe comprehen environ- Morrison’ to bring in more water- sivemental rebuff movement. of the government’s attack bombers ahead of horror tions seen since the Black Saturday The UK’s biggest listed fund manager, bushfire season bushfiresboth major a decadeparties ago,when Greens he said leader the which controls assets worth more than ABC, 14/11/2019 Richardnation’s Diemissions Natale sparked policy had fury caused from £550bn, also defended the role of en- - injured 100. gency leaders say they tried for Forces, which has been accused by the the fires that killed three people and monthsTwenty-three to warn former Prime fire Minister and emer Scott vironmentalattorney general, groups Christian including Porter, Market of Morrison that Australia needed more pressuring companies. https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/nsw-planning- delayed-20191112-p539th.html minister-rejects-claims-of-mining-lobby-influence-as-bill- https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/deputy-premier- water-bombers to tackle bigger, faster NSW Planning Minister rejects claims of Former New South Wales Fire and 20191111-p539ig.html mining lobby influence as bill delayed and hotter bushfires. says-climate-change-talk-amid-fire-crisis-a-disgrace- Deputy Premier says climate change Lisa Visentin, SMH, 13/11/2019 founders of the Emergency Leaders for talk amid fire crisis a ‘disgrace’ Rescue chief Greg Mullins – one of the sought a meeting with the Federal Gov- Alexandra Smith & David Crowe, SMH, says he did not cave to demands from ernmentClimate Action to discuss Group the – issuesaid the in April group 11/11/2019 NSWthe powerful Planning mining Minister lobby, Rob as Stokes a bill and again in May, immediately after dealing with greenhouse gas emissions the federal election. was delayed until next year. “We have tried since April to get a Anyone who talks about climate changePremier during John Barilaro the bushfire said, crisisas the is NSW a following a concerted lobbying cam- Mullins told ABC Radio on Thursday “bloodyNationals disgrace”, lined up thewith state’s their Deputyfederal Stokespaign by introduced the NSW Mineralsthe bill last Council month, to meetingmorning. with “It’s theclear Prime now Minister,”we won’t get stop planning authorities from consid- that meeting. ering the climate pollution of exported colleagues to downplay links between The Deputy Prime Minister, Michael Australian coal when determining new global warming and the fires. mining projects. about. aim at the Greens and “all those other “We had some pretty simple asks that we wanted to talk to the government McCormack, earlier on Monday took until after March, when the upper claimed, were politicising the tragedy. Ahouse final votesvote on to therefer bill it towill a parliamenbe delayed- inner city raving lunatics” who, he tary committee for further inquiry. “Funding for large aerial fire tankers. “Ifallocated they (the more government) money to have had spokenmore Glen Innes council mayor Carol Sparks, https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/ toof thoseus back aircraft, then, maybe but they they didn’t could and have the first Greens member to hold that - nov/13/nsw-public-servants-at-climate-conference-told- position, said last week “there’s no doubt”said Prime climate Minister change Scott was Morrison contribut NSWnot-to-discuss-link-with-bushfires public servants at climate they’re probably not available now.” ingshould to drought act on this. and the lack of rain and conference told not to discuss link https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-15/scott- change/11707096 The Greens’ Adam Bandt responded with bushfires morrison-should-listen-to-fire-chiefs-on-climate- by redoubling his call for the closure of Anne Davies, Guardian, 13/11/2019 Scott Morrison should listen when top the coal industry on the grounds that a fire chiefs call him out on - global coal shut-down would help the climate change NSWAs bushfire bureaucrats conditions attending were ade Michelle Grattan, ABC, 15/11/2019 “This government has had every claredconference “catastrophic” on adaption on toTuesday, climate climate and ease the risk of bushfires. change were directed not discuss news conference on Thursday to urge When five former fire chiefs held a opportunity to minimise the risk of bushfires. action on climate change, it was a chal- Greens MP said. the link between climate change and these catastrophic fires and instead it Bureaucrats from the NSW Depart- thelenging Federal moment Government for Scott to Morrison. take more has chosen to pour fuel on the fire,” the ment of Planning, Industry and Envi- Those who fronted the cameras rep- https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/greens- ronment were sent an email soon after - resented a group of 21 men and two ry/d0943c5674694e0a3e3622201c5b3be9 the AdaptNSW 2019 Forum began, playing-politics-with-fire-say-labor-and-coalition/news-sto causing consternation among some Leaders for Climate Action. These Greens playing politics with fire, say attendees who saw it as tantamount to women, who make up the Emergency Labor and Coalition gagging them. services all around the nation. Greg Brown & Andrew Clennell, Aus, people have led fire and emergency The email said: “For those attending The group’s messages are that we’re in 12/11/2019 AdaptNSW today, public affairs has Senior Coalition and Labor MPs have “areason new thingsage of unprecedentedare getting worse, bushfire and issued advice not to discuss the link for suggesting climate change policies “Gagging climate change experts from danger”,the Government climate changeneeds to is respond the key with launchedare responsible a bitter for attack the catastrophic on the Greens between climate change and bushfires. more resources and a better policy to disaster is a new low from this govern- reduce emissions and move to clean Queensland. speaking in the middle of a bushfire energy. bushfire threat confronting NSW and ment,” Greens MP David Shoebridge said. Page 15 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019

(Article continues with detailed analy- It is undisputed that Labor’s strategy sis of government policy.) with the CPRS in 2009 was to sideline • Michelle Grattan is a professorial fellow at the Greens and negotiate the scheme Coalition. They know that praying with the University of Canberra and chief political with the then Opposition leader, Mal- oneChaucerian hand and pardoner flogging can coal only with intensi the - correspondent at The Conversation. colm Turnbull. The more the Greens otherfy the likeinferno. some tufted-and-pimpled Protesters aren’t anarchists. Tuesday’s emissions-reduction targets were https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-14/bob- Macquarie Street rally represented brown-and-others-say-new-anti-protest-law-bid-wont- complainedtoo low, and –that as theythe scheme did – that was Rudd’s too every age, from zero to 90, and every brown, the happier Labor was. ... work/11705296 Greens defiant ahead of anti-protest law - reboot to quell activists tabled conceivablecent climate typerally. – ... suits, hipsters, in Parliament [Tony]lives on Abbott in the Morrisonput the country government. back a schoolkids, grannies. Same at the re No wonder many Australians believe decadeThat’s Australia’s and counting, problem and his on influenceclimate Alexandra Humphries, ABC, 14/11/2019 our governments are corrupt on coal. right there. The Tasmanian Government has The calls for a properly scoped and promised the state will soon have - https://www.thesaturdaypaper.com.au/ the strongest anti-protest laws in the news/politics/2019/11/16/actually-it-cli- country, but one expert says the leg- mate-change/15738228009076 fundedbecome federal a core platformICAC – not of the climate de signed-to-failconsciousness. variety proposed – has Actually, it is climate change Mike Seccombe, Saturday Paper, 16/11/2019 islation is essentially a “bill of rights” https://www.afr.com/companies/energy/energy-minister- for businesses and reflects a “massive The quote you are about to read did to-cut-deals-with-collaborative-states-20191115-p53av6 overreach”. laws would be up to 18 months in jail, not come from Scott Morrison, al- Energy Minister to cut deals with Penaltieswhile a second for a first offence offence could under attract the a though our prime minister repeatedly ‘collaborative’ states Mark Ludlow & Angela Macdonald-Smith, AFR, Under the criminal code, a court could 18/11/2019 four-year term and a $10,000 fine. invokedabout the the role same of climate sentiments change this in impose a penalty of up to 21 years in week,eastern every Australia’s time someone unprecedented asked him Federal Energy Minister Angus Taylor jail. - - A submission from the University of “This sort of response isn’t helpful. bushfires. lisedwill seek national to cut electricity deals with grid, “collabo poten- Families are mourning. Offer a prayer remained in breach of the implied free- tiallyrative” isolating states to Victoria shore up over the energy destabi Newdom ofSouth political Wales communication. said key provisions and climate policy. The quotes come from the United Community Legal Centres Tasmania and temper your desire for politics …” https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-18/how-climate- said they were strongly opposed to the change-and-the-economy-go-hand-in-hand/11712548 The fossil fuel lobby in this country, legislation because it was unnecessary, States’ National Rifle Association. ... and the Tasmanian Law Reform Insti- Climate change and the economy tute said the draft legislation appeared are linked – it’s time the Morrison to breach fundamental human rights like the gun lobby [in the USA], retains Government accepts that principles that incursions on rights itson holdwinning on politics until the with people its playbook muster the Ian Verrender, ABC, 18/11/2019 must be necessary. and its chequebook. And it will keep - Time is a precious commodity. And it University of Tasmania senior law political will to back their beliefs. is rapidly running out for the Federal lecturer Brendan Gogarty said the ning to happen. legislation amounted to a bill of rights Maybe this week shows that is begin for companies with no equivalent for https://www.smh.com.au/national/that-s-the-bloody-dis- Government on two key fronts. citizens. grace-australia-is-burning-but-nsw-is-cuddling-up-to-coal- eastern Australia, exacting an intol- 20191114-p53ai7.html Witherable fires toll ragingon life acrossand property a parched even before the onset of summer, the Gov- https://www.themonthly.com.au/today/paddy-manning/2 ‘That’s the bloody disgrace’: Australia 019/15/2019/1573787713/2009-forever is burning but NSW is cuddling up to coal against its long-held belief that our 2009 forever Elizabeth Farrelly, SMH, 16/11/2019 ernmentenergy should is facing be generateda growing bybacklash anti- Paddy Manning, Monthly, 15/11/2019 Thoughts and prayers? Miracles? Seriously, Mr Morrison? It was already pollute the atmosphere and accelerate Who does it suit for Labor and the 29 degrees by 9 am Tuesday, when quated,the onset coal-fired of global steam warming. engines ... that hundreds gathered in Macquarie Street for the failure of Kevin Rudd’s Carbon Equally contentious is Canberra’s rigid to protest against our governments’ Pollution Reduction Scheme legislation determination to deliver a budget Greens to keep blaming each other strenuous addiction to coal. The rally - but every bit as poignant, outlining inalypse, 2009–10? the major-party The Coalition, line of has course. been surplusprolonged even downturn as the economy into something weakens, wasas it smallerdid the coal-shapedthan the climate hole strikesin our that nothing the Greens say about whichquite ugly. runs ... the risk of transforming a Throughout this week’s climate apoc democracy. ... It is debatable that even a shift to a because they voted against the Carbon completely renewable energy econo- climatePollution change Reduction can be Scheme. taken seriously Let’s un- my would have halted the devastating People out in the bush know what’s is going to do it. goingbetrayed, down. repeatedly, They know by thewho coal the in nation. But if we are to become one pick that argument a bit – nobody else loonies are. They know they’ve been drought and fires spreading across the Page 16 • Fossil Fool Bulletin 2:48 • 19 November 2019

“Over the last year, my view has hard- ened. My view is that we haven’t got the reliability standard right. The sys-

tem inherently ­accepts too much risk and relies on too many contingencies.”F

A struggle against the imposition by of the worst affected nations from cli- As reported by the Australian Financial force of a Review, representatives from oil and CSG industry. a leading role in affecting change. gas company Santos, and coal miner mate change, perhaps it’s time to take Glencore have met with Prime Minis- It just might be good for business. ter Scott Morrison and advocated for carbon capture and storage projects to Download https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/cana- van-calls-for-shale-revolution/news-story/d6993241d0f- free from: ce13d88bcebd7af765799 billion Climate Solutions Fund. receive financial support under the $2 - The push to invest in carbon capture Canavan calls for shale revolution https://www.dropbox.com/s/sbtwhwoykfqrqsy/GasPDF.pdf?dl=0 and storage projects appears to have field%20Free%20NSW%20Northern%20Rivers%20 Joe Kelly, Aus, 18/11/2019 Resources Minister Matt Canavan has used a visit to the Permian Basin in thesupport backing for suchof resources projects minister was under Matt Texas to call for America’s shale gas Canavan,active consideration who confirmed by the that Morrison financial revolution to be brought to Australia, government. arguing there is an opportunity to de- liver a manufacturing boom for Darwin https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/ and northern Australia. 898dae6fc2c6d5871bb810f0babedccf Senator Canavan arrived in the US on blackouts-risk-to-force-states-hand-on-coal/news-story/ Saturday and met representatives from Blackouts risk to force states’ hand on coal their shale operations in the Permian Simon Benson, Aus, 19/11/2019 Chevron to get a first-hand look at a drilling operation. Energy Minister Angus Taylor will THE TOWN THAT SAID NO TO AGL demand tougher energy ­reliability $25 plus $9 postage in Australia. Basin, including visits to a fracking and standards in a move that could trigger http://thetownthatsaidnotoagl.com/ https://reneweconomy.com.au/canavan-revives-car- legal obligations on major retailers bon-capture-in-new-effort-to-underpin-coal-genera- tors-54900/ in some states, including Victoria, to source more power from coal, gas and Canavan revives carbon capture in new hydro. effort to underpin coal generators “As an energy minister with a strong Michael Mazengarb, Renew Economy, focus on reliability and the price im- 18/11/2019 pacts of a shortage of ­reliable genera- Resources minister Matt Canavan is tion, I can tell you my tolerance is test- leading a renewed effort to secure federal funding for carbon capture and energy summit in Sydney on Tuesday. storage projects, as part of a wider ed,” Taylor will say in a speech to an strategy to see more investment in coal-fired power stations in Australia. Fossil Fool Bulletin is published Tuesdays (in your email Wednesday). https://knitting-nannas.org/bulletins.php SIGN UP for your FREE subscription E Past issues available to download D

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