The first fracking proposal for the Western Australia since the state lifted its moratorium has been referred to the Federal Government, sparking outrage from community groups. These groups fear the project will lead to the full-blown industrialization of the Kimberley region.
American company Black Mountain Energy has submitted its “Valhalla” project for assessment under federal environment laws. The EPBC referral for this project went live recently, with an Invitation for Public Comment on Referral.
If approved, Black Mountain would be permitted to construct six new fracking wells near Broome in WA’s Kimberley region. However, the company’s state application is for 20 wells, indicating it has split the project for federal assessment.
Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, is a controversial method of extracting natural gas from deep underground by injecting high-pressure fluid into rock formations. Despite its potential to boost energy production, fracking poses significant environmental and health risks, particularly in Western Australia.
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The First Fracking Plan for Kimberley
Black Mountain Energy’s referral identifies the Greater Bilby as a Species of National Environmental Significance that the project could impact, with fauna surveys identifying fresh bilby “diggings” in the development area.
The company admits that the project will take a minimum of 100 million litres of groundwater per annum for each well and intends to frack each well up to 70 times.
Black Mountain has already faced controversy since it first revealed plans for the Valhalla fracking project in 2020. Last year, the company was fined $39,960 for three counts of greenwashing, claiming gas from Valhalla would be “net-zero emissions” without evidence.
In 2021, Roger Cook, in his capacity as WA State Development Minister, repealed the ban on exporting onshore gas for the Kimberley region, allowing Black Mountain to export the gas.
Lock the Gate Alliance WA Coordinator Claire McKinnon expressed her concerns, stating, “This is what we feared – the first real attempt by a multinational fracking company to begin industrialising and contaminating the much-loved Kimberley since the lifting of the moratorium.”
McKinnon emphasized the need for federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to protect threatened animals like the bilby and to require a full environmental impact assessment for the project.
“Fracking requires massive volumes of groundwater, combined with millions of litres of toxic chemicals and sand and pumped deep underground at high pressure, and poses a serious risk of water drainage and pollution,” she said.
“Minister Plibersek needs to apply the updated water trigger in national environment laws to this project. Failure to do so makes a mockery of these laws,” McKinnon added.
Claire McKinnon highlighted that Black Mountain plans to build a high-pressure gas pipeline more than 1000 km long to target “11.8 million cubic feet” of gas, and warned that the company will not stop at a handful of wells if the government approves this application.
The Greater Bilby
The Greater Bilby, an iconic and endangered marsupial native to Australia, is facing significant threats to its survival. Known for its long ears, silky fur, and nocturnal habits, the bilby plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, helping to maintain soil health through its burrowing activities.
In the Kimberley region of Western Australia, the bilby’s fragile existence is further jeopardized by the looming threat of fracking. Projects like Black Mountain Energy’s “Valhalla” fracking proposal pose significant risks to the bilby’s habitat.
The disturbance from drilling and potential contamination of groundwater sources could devastate bilby populations, which rely on these resources for their survival. Protecting the Greater Bilby from industrial threats is not only crucial for preserving biodiversity but also for maintaining the ecological balance in these unique Australian landscapes.
Environmental Impact
Water Contamination Fracking uses a mix of water, sand, and chemicals, some of which are toxic. Concerns have been raised about these chemicals seeping into groundwater, a critical resource for both drinking water and agriculture. Contaminated water sources can have long-lasting effects on local communities and ecosystems.
Air Pollution Fracking operations release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants into the air, contributing to smog and respiratory issues. Residents living near fracking sites have reported increased incidences of asthma and other respiratory conditions.
Earthquakes The injection of high-pressure fluid into the earth can destabilize fault lines, leading to earthquakes. Although Western Australia is not traditionally known for seismic activity, fracking has been linked to an increase in minor earthquakes, raising concerns about potential future risks.
Health Risks
Chemical Exposure The chemicals used in fracking can be hazardous to human health. Exposure to these chemicals, whether through contaminated water, air pollution, or accidental spills, can lead to serious health problems, including skin rashes, respiratory issues, and even cancer.
Noise Pollution Fracking operations are noisy, with constant drilling and heavy machinery disrupting the peace of rural communities. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to stress, sleep disturbances, and other health issues.
Impact on Indigenous Lands
Western Australia is home to many Indigenous communities whose lands and cultural heritage sites are at risk from fracking activities. The disruption of sacred sites and the potential for land contamination threaten not only the environment but also the cultural and spiritual well-being of these communities.
Economic Considerations
While proponents of fracking argue that it brings economic benefits through job creation and energy production, the long-term costs can outweigh these benefits. Environmental cleanup, health care costs, and the potential loss of tourism and agriculture due to environmental degradation can impose significant financial burdens on the state.
“Fracking is a dirty and dangerous way to extract fossil gas. Gas is fueling the climate crisis and the International Energy Agency has made it clear the world can’t afford new gas projects if we want to protect communities from extreme weather driven by climate change,” Lock the Gate Alliance WA Coordinator Claire McKinnon said.
“Black Mountain’s direct impact on water and the local environment and broader contribution to climate change should be sufficient for Minister Plibersek to require full environmental impact assessment,” she concluded.
Alternatives to Fracking
Given the risks associated with fracking, it is crucial to explore and invest in alternative energy sources. Western Australia has vast potential for renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power. These alternatives can provide sustainable energy without the environmental and health risks posed by fracking.
The dangers of fracking in Western Australia cannot be overlooked. From environmental degradation and health risks to the impact on Indigenous lands and long-term economic costs, the potential harms are significant.
It is imperative that we prioritize sustainable and safe energy alternatives to protect our environment, health, and cultural heritage for future generations. The decision on Black Mountain’s Valhalla project will set a precedent for the future of fracking in the region, making it a critical issue for policymakers and the public alike.
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