Australia's new environmental agency approves coal mine extension to 2055, sparking climate backlash

Australia's new environmental protection agency has approved its first coal project, allowing a Queensland open-cut mine to operate until 2055, drawing criticism from climate groups. The National Environmental Protection Agency approved the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance's Saraji mine extension to dig 55 million tonnes of coal, with conditions limiting habitat clearing for threatened species. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denied tensions with Pacific leaders over fossil fuels at this week's forum. Climate groups condemned the approval, noting it would release about 120 million tonnes of CO2, and Greenpeace called it an "affront" to Pacific leaders facing rising sea levels.