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 lacks easy access to detailed information. Director Coral Rowston from Environmental Advocacy in Central Queensland highlights the need for regular publication of the '28-day report', which details releases at various points along the catchment. Without this report, it's challenging to track the total water released and the chemicals it contains. The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation's website provides live information, but the group believes more transparency is crucial for understanding the cumulative impacts on urban and agricultural water supplies. The controversy lies in the balance between environmental protection and the economic needs of the coal mining industry, leaving the public to question the extent of regulation and monitoring.
