The first EnvironmentManagement Plan (EMP) for Onshore Shale Gas Exploration Drilling has beenapproved in the McArthur Basin, following the completion of 31 recommendationsfrom the Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing required before shale gasexploration and drilling can commence.
TheSantos McArthur Basin EP 161 Drilling Program 2019 EMP received 22 submissionsas a result of the public consultation process, a process that was implementedby this Labor Government.
Santosrevised their EMP following the public consultation process, including thewastewater management plan and spill management plan, ensuring thatenvironmental risks will be controlled and reduced to a level that is as low asreasonably practical and acceptable.
TheTerritory Labor Government is restoring trust and certainty through theimplementation of a robust, clear and transparent set of rules and guidelinesaround how the environment must be protected in accordance with therecommendations of the Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing andis meeting the principles of ecologically sustainable development.
Aspart of the decision to lift the moratorium on hydraulic fracturing, newregulations require the Minister for Environment and Natural Resources topublish an EMP for public comment on the Department of Environment and NaturalResources (DENR) website where the activity involves the drilling of apetroleum well or hydraulic fracturing, and the outcome of the decision,including a statement of reasons.
