There is ongoing debate about Coal mining in PNG, its use as a source of energy, and the effects the fossil fuel’s use on the environment.
Studies have revealed that there is enough high quality coal in the Gulf Province, to run a 50-megawatt power station for 30 years,but the question begs: at what cost is coal usage?
There is an obvious absence of a local coal mining industry in the country however this may soon change. Mineral explorer, Mayur Resources, believes coal has a bright future in the country and could help to alleviate power shortages if the resource is tapped into and developed.
However, there have been polarising debates about the development of this particular fossil fuel, especially concerning environmental implications.
Industry expert, Peter McCabe, weighed in on the topic; stating that if it is mined well and in an environmentally friendly way, an area can be mined and later, the land can be restored.
However the burning of coal has been found to emit harmful emissions such as carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide and strong regulation is vital. The move may also contravene PNG’s pact as a signee to international Climate Change mitigation agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement.
