New Report Raises Concerns Over Environmental Impact of Woodside's North West Shelf Project

Overview of Recent Developments

A recent scientific report has become pivotal in the Albanese government’s decision to further delay the approval for Woodside’s North West Shelf project, addressing environmental and cultural apprehensions related to the gas facility operating on WA's Burrup Peninsula. Woodside has been awaiting state and federal approvals for over six years to continue its operations, with Environment Minister Murray Watt anticipated to announce a decision soon.

Scientific Findings

The report, focused on the Indigenous heritage site of Murujuga, indicates that industrial emissions have indeed caused damage to the site's rock formations, though this deterioration happened during decades when pollution levels were significantly higher than they are today. This finding seeks to clarify longstanding scientific uncertainties regarding the impact of industrial activities on the site, which is also in contention for World Heritage status.

Key insights from the report reveal:

• An increase in rock porosity in areas close to Dampier corresponds with elevated pollution from industrial emissions during the 1970s.
• A notable reduction in key air pollutants has occurred since 2014.
• No evidence has surfaced indicating that acid rain or pollutant deposition is harming the rock art.
• The report established interim Environmental Quality Criteria to regulate industrial emissions in the area more effectively.

Government and Community Responses

Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn emphasized that the initiative achieved a comprehensive and reliable data set on rock art conditions while collaborating closely with local Aboriginal communities, including the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation. He framed their approach as one focused on transparency and continual improvement in managing emissions to protect this ancient cultural site.

However, traditional owner Raelene Cooper has sharply criticized the report's timing and content, claiming that the Western Australian government has strategically timed the report’s release for minimal scrutiny, just preceding a critical decision on the North West Shelf project. Cooper, who is also pursuing a legal challenge against Woodside, argues that independent reviews rather than government-sponsored assessments are crucial for verifying the report's claims.

The Greens have echoed these sentiments, with spokesperson Sophie McNeill demanding clarity on the government's intentions. She remarked that the timing of the report's release is highly suspicious, given it attempts to understate the significance of the damage detailed within.

Conclusion

The report indicates that despite some progress in reducing air pollution, further research is necessary to fully understand the ongoing impacts of industrial activities on the rock art and the surrounding environment. Until then, the planned expansion of the North West Shelf project remains in contention, underscored by the urgent pleas from traditional owners and environmental advocates to ensure the protection of this culturally significant site.