Environmental Concerns Associated with the Rapid Expansion of Coal Seam Gas Mining in Australia

Bachelorarbeit aus dem Jahr 2016 im Fachbereich Ingenieurwissenschaften - Bauingenieurwesen, Note: 90/100, University of Technology, Sydney, Sprache: Deutsch, Abstract: Natural gas is expected to play an important role in Australiäs transition to a low-carbon economy. In comparison to coal, the combustion of natural gas generates half the greenhouse gas emissions and does not produce harmful by-products such as sulphur, mercury, fly ash and particulate matter. Despite this, the rapid expansion of coal seam gas mining in Australia has raised significant concerns amongst the community.

This project aims to determine if the production of CSG at commercially viable rates would adversely impact the environment, and if so, to what extent. An extensive literature review was undertaken and identified three main potential impacts associated with the rapid expansion of coal seam gas. These include; the fragmentation of agricultural land and habitat, groundwater contamination and diminished water supply, and emissions of greenhouse gasses. Case studies from the United States and Australia were also examined.

The study found that the majority of literature publications expressed some concern towards the rapid expansion CSG mining in Australia, however a high level of uncertainty exists as to their direct environmental impact. Without rigorous scientific studies, coal seam gas is expected to remain an uncontrolled risk, posing substantial threats to the environment in which we live. This study recommends that mitigation measures be applied in accordance with the precautionary principle, and that scientific research be undertaken to prevent the occurrence of serious or irreversible environmental harm. Research in this field will benefit the community through the identification of opportunities and challenges faced during the initial expansion of the CSG industry in Australia. Furthermore, the introduction of preventative measures will maintain the sustainability of our environment for future generations to come.