Central Queensland communities have a huge opportunity to capitalise on the growing demand for green steel made with alternative fuel sources as coal is phased out, according to an economic and finance expert who has spent many years investigating global coal markets.
Coal and economics expert Simon Nicholas from the Institute of Energy Economics will hold lively, fact-checking information session in Rockhampton to discuss the rapidly growing green steel sector and what it means for coal dependent regions like Central Queensland.
Event details:
When: Wednesday 3 July, 6-7.30pm
Where: Flow Centre, Fitzroy Basin Association, 80 East St, Rockhampton
Tea, coffee and snacks provided!
IEEFA Coal and economics expert Simon Nicholas will talk about how the steel technology is rapidly transitionining away from coal.
“We are now seeing green iron and steel developments announced in Australia and around the world.
“As a result, the long-term outlook for metallurgical coal has changed. It is not a surprise that the Australian government forecasts that world trade in metallurgical coal trade is in decline, and that Australia’s own exports will decline after 2026 out towards the end of the decade”.
Environmental Advocacy in Central Queensland Director Dr Coral Rowston said,
“Extreme weather driven by climate change is already having a devastating impact on Queensland communities.
“Central Queensland communities care deeply for and rely heavily on the Great Barrier Reef. It is a much-loved natural wonder that is also critical to the local economy.
“UNESCO has urged the Australian Government to improve its greenhouse gas reduction targets and raised concerns about the rates of land clearing in catchments that flow into the reef.
“Metallurgical coal mines in the Bowen Basin are responsible for extensive land clearing and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
“Supporting green steel is one important way to help the reef.”
Lock the Gate Alliance National Coordinator Ellen Roberts said,
“Green steel is coming, whether big coal companies want to admit it or not. Regions like Central Queensland need to be ready for this inevitable shift.
“The global transition to green steel is necessary so not only Queensland, but the world can meet its emissions reduction targets and reduce the impact of climate change.”
Come along and find out why we really don’t need any new coal mines approved in Central Queensland!
EnvA - CQ 