Australia's largest CO2 emitters may be getting a huge lucky break with a permit extension, likely following Western Australia's decision to abandon emissions reduction rules.

Permit Extension:
The Western Australian (WA) government is likely to approve a 50-year extension for Woodside's North West Shelf gas plant, one of Australia’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, by removing state-level emissions reduction rules. This change would allow the plant to operate until 2070, potentially leading to billions of tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Environmentalists and scientists warn that this extension, connected to developing new gas fields, will contribute significantly to global climate pollution.

Emissions Reduction Rules:
Previously, the WA Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) recommended that the plant’s extension be conditional on reducing emissions, either on-site or through carbon offsets. Over 750 objections were lodged due to climate concerns and potential harm to Indigenous rock art, but the state government has since announced it will eliminate EPA oversight of major emissions sources, relying instead on the federal “safeguard mechanism.” This federal policy mandates annual emissions intensity reductions for Australia’s largest emitters, but some believe it is less stringent than the EPA’s proposed reductions.

Impact on Environment:
This move could have significant environmental implications, potentially leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions.

Critics, including environmental advocates and WA Greens MP Brad Pettitt, argue that WA's decision supports big gas corporations, which benefit financially under the federal mechanism’s lower standards. WA is the only Australian state without a 2030 emissions reduction target and has seen rising emissions over the past two decades, contrasting with emissions reductions in other states. This policy shift has sparked concern that WA’s support of the gas industry undermines both national and global climate goals.

Regulatory Changes:
The decision reflects broader regulatory changes in Australia regarding environmental policies. The article highlights the tension between economic interests and environmental concerns in Australia's energy sector. The permit extension and abandonment of emissions reduction rules underscore the ongoing debate over balancing industrial growth with climate action.

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