In Central Queensland, a conservation group is calling for more transparency regarding coal mine water releases, particularly as flooding subsides following ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. Over two dozen coal mines have been releasing water into the largest catchment feeding the Great Barrier Reef. While each mine has environmental rules about the amount and timing of water releases, the group argues that the public is unable to track the exact volume of water pumped out of contaminated holding dams and the chemicals it contains. The director of Environmental Advocacy in Central Queensland, Coral Rowston, emphasizes the need for regular publication of the '28-day report' compiled by each mine, detailing releases at various points along the catchment. Without this report, it's challenging to obtain timely information on the total water released and the specific chemicals present. The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation's website provides live information on daily releases, but the group believes more transparency is necessary to understand the cumulative impacts on urban and agricultural water supplies. The Queensland Environment Department confirms that the 55 releases in January followed the rules, but does not provide the total amount of water released. The coal mines release water during high flow periods to avoid flooding and minimize environmental impacts, and the state government's pilot program from 2012 to 2016 showed no noticeable impact on water quality. However, the group's call for more transparency highlights the need for ongoing public scrutiny and discussion on the environmental implications of coal mine water releases.
