Australia's new environmental protection agency has approved the extension of the Saraji coal mine in Queensland, allowing operations to continue until 2055. This decision permits the extraction of an additional 55 million tonnes of coal while impacting threatened species and habitats, including those of koalas and ornamental snakes.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has denied any tensions with Pacific leaders regarding fossil fuel exports, despite criticism from environmental groups. They argue that this approval contradicts commitments to address climate change and highlights ongoing challenges in balancing economic interests with environmental protection.