The Victorian Greens have called on the Victorian Labor Government to reject a Viva Energy application to construct a gas terminal in Corio Bay, following the release of a report into the state’s gas emissions.
The Environment Victoria report, which was released today, reveals that Victoria won’t be able to meet its 2035 emissions reduction targets if the Government continues to green light more gas.
If approved, the proposed Viva Energy project would either import fracked gas from another state, or re-import gas from here in Victoria that was originally sent to Queensland for export.
This produces emissions all along the supply chain – including in drilling and fracking for the gas in the first place, and huge amounts of emissions in transporting the gas around the country – let alone the emissions when the gas is burned here in Victoria.
Deputy Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell, said Environment Victoria’s report made clear the need to stop supporting new coal or gas projects.
She added that in the midst of a climate crisis, approving a project like the Corio Bay gas terminal would be criminal.
The community has been waiting months for a decision from the Minister, with the Environment Effects Statement (EES) report handed to the government last October.
The EES process saw thousands of submissions sent to the Government against the terminal, including from councils, high schools, environmental advocates and the local community.
As stated by Deputy Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell MP:
“In the midst of a climate crisis, it would be criminal for the Labor Victorian Government to approve another new fossil fuel gas project.
“First Labor in Victoria approved gas drilling near the 12 Apostles, and now we’re waiting to see if they’ll approve a new gas terminal in Corio Bay.
“It’s clear the Victorian Labor Government continues to put the interests of fossil fuel giants above the needs of everyday Victorians who want to see our climate and environment protected for our future.
“The Government needs to decide which side they are on: the side of young people and future generations who want to live in a safe climate, or the side of fossil fuel corporations who are creating climate destruction.”
As stated by Victorian Greens rural and regional spokesperson, Sarah Mansfield MLC:
“Many threatened species who call Corio Bay home will be at greater risk of extinction if this terminal is constructed.
“And the local community will be forced to live next door to a polluting and potentially dangerous terminal that could have poor impacts on their health.
“The Greens will continue to fight this development alongside the community.”
