Coal Seam Gas Mining Positively Affects Australia

Con’s arguments fit neatly into two distinct categories; social, and environmental. Structurally, I will be addressing the social arguments, followed by the environmental arguments. Subsequently, I will address what is the true essence of the debate; the aggregate balance between positive and negative effects. Social“. .. farmers feel ignored by government and powerless when dealing with the energy companies. .. If the Government grants a CSGM company access to land on a farmer's property, then Gas companies can legally enter private land. .. ”In general, CSG companies cannot enter land without the landholders' knowledge or consent and must negotiate with the landholder on the placement of any wells or infrastructure [1]. It is technically true that a CSG company can access Australia's natural resources even vis-à-vis an uncooperative individual. However, the law does not exist in a vacuum; it is created by and maintained by the political process. Experientially if a community does not want CSGM, no operations are undergone[2]. When a group of landowners decline access to their land, the economic and political backlash of a forced entry far outweighs the potential gains. This has occurred in Keerrong, Terania, Tuntable Creek and The Channon [2]. Thus, it is apparent that the power still resides firmly with the people. “there is "no set figure" in the compensation. .. gates have been left open. .. ” etc. While I don't have the time to address each of Con's anecdotes individually, I will address the issue as a whole. Due to the power residing with the landowners, it is in the best interests of CSGM companies to develop relationships of mutual trust and respect. For the vast majority of landowners, this is the case. The fact of the matter is that the industry is extensive, with over 3500 wells currently [3], and though it is unfortunate that in some isolated instances issues arise, it’s almost unavoidable. Environmental“Farmers also fear that water security could be compromised. .. John Hillier, is "concerned about the long term impact the CSG industry will have on the Great Artesian Basin". .. ” According to an independent study conducted by the University of Southern Queensland, the CSG industry will have little impact on the Great Artesian Basin or the aquifers relied upon for agriculture. [4] For more information, . http://www.youtube.com... the video accompanying this round is an excellent resource. In regards to the individual bores in the Surat Basin, a Queensland Water Commission report has found that 97.5% of all bores will not be affected [5]. However, in the rare event of a localised depletion of bore-water, CSG companies are legally required and do rectify this. “Fracking [sic. ] . .. can result in contaminated aquifers which contain salty and toxic water”Hydraulic fracturing or fraccing as a process is well regulated, widely practiced and extensively researched. Despite a “neighbouring farmer investigating” and purportedly discovering its terrible dangers, fraccing fluid is typically more than 99% water and sand [6]. Furthermore, while the proppants remain in the coal seams, the vast majority of the fluid is brought back up to the surface. In regards to the specific chemicals that occasionally appear in the fraccing solution, an extensive and clear list if readily available as a public resource on the APPEA website [6]. Finally, the use of BTEX chemicals (benzene, tolulene, ethylbenzene and xylenes) has been banned in Australia [7]. On BalanceUnfortunately upon close examination, Con's case falls apart. While their may be real issues, Con has failed to address them in any rigorous fashion, instead relying upon anecdotal evidence and groundless claims. Yes, several farmers have faced issues in regards to the CSGM industry's growth and expansion. However, overwhelmingly the CSGM industry has meshed with the existing rural network. In instances where, for whatever reason, a community decides not to accept the CSGM industry, the CSGM has no choice but to comply. Environmentally, Con's two points- water management and the fraccing process have been cogently refuted. On the other hand, going back to my R2 arguments, CSGM has incredibly positive economic, social and even ecological effects that are yet to be addressed by Con. On balance as it stands, it is no contention: Coal seam gas mining positively affects Australia. [1]: . http://www.appea.com.au...[2]: . http://www.csgfreenorthernrivers.org...[3]: . http://www.appea.com.au...[4]: . http://www.appea.com.au...[5]: . http://www.qwc.qld.gov.au...[6]: . http://www.appea.com.au...[7]: . http://www.trade.nsw.gov.au...