Keep Top End Coasts Healthy welcomes the Northern Territory Government’s announcement today to ban seabed mining, saying it’s a win for marine life, fishing and culture.
The Northern Territory Government first declared a three-year temporary ban on seabed mining in March 2012 and has since extended it twice under both the Country Liberal Party (CLP) and Labor Governments. With the temporary ban due to expire in March, Territorians have made it clear that they want a permanent ban. It’s great to see today the Government listen and act on this important issue.
Adele Pedder from Keep Top End Coasts Healthy said “We commend the Gunner Government for listening to the evidence, and the people of the Northern Territory, and acting to ban this destructive activity.”
“The Top End has some of the last healthy tropical coasts in the world. Seabed mining is like bulldozing the seafloor. It would decimate our marine life, pollute our waters, threaten our fishing and destroy places of cultural significance.”
“Mining corporations were lining up to mine some of our most precious places like Fog, Anson and Blue Mud Bays, the Wessel Islands and Limmen Bight*. Traditional Owners, environment groups, commercial and recreational fishers, tourism operators and scientists have raised concerns about the ecological, cultural, social and economic impacts of seabed mining in the Top End.”
“Healthy coasts and rivers are central to our Top End way of life, our economic success and our culture. They underpin one of the most important economic and cultural pursuits – the Top End fishing experience. They contribute $2billion to the Territory economy each year, supporting more than 6,000 jobs and are a powerful drawcard for tourists from around the world.”
“By banning seabed mining, the Gunner Government has today demonstrated their commitment to protect our coasts and safeguard our fishing, lifestyle and regional economies ” said Ms Pedder.
Media Contact: Adele Pedder 0422 108 539
Keep Top End Coasts Healthy is an alliance between the Australian Marine Conservation Society, Environment Centre NT and The Pew Charitable Trusts