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Newcastle Herald: Nod for coal shows deep disregard for region's health

The Albanese government's extension of three coal mines past 2050 raises concerns about health and environmental impacts, contributing to pollution and exacerbating respiratory diseases, writes Dr John Van Der Kallen in an opinion piece for the Newcastle Herald.

This decision by the federal government may result in an additional 1.4 billion tons of greenhouse gases, contradicting Labor's commitment to improve environmental standards and update outdated laws. Continued reliance on coal, despite cleaner technologies being available, contributes to global warming.

Although the coal industry has historically supported communities, the associated health risks necessitate a transition to cleaner alternatives.

Governments should prioritise pollution reduction, support coal workers in finding safer jobs, and halt new fossil fuel projects to protect public health and the environment.

Read the opinion piece in the Newcastle Herald

(This article is paywalled)

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