A gas giant’s proposed plan to release coal seam gas wastewater during flooding events is sparking fears for two endangered turtle species that breathe through their bums.
A Santos Spokesperson said there would only be a limited release of water during flooding events, which would be monitored and would not harm the turtles or environment.
This contradicts the company’s own findings in their initial referral documents.
However, the secretary of Queensland’s Wildlife Preservation Society of Upper Dawson branch said there is not enough scientific studies on the level of impact releasing untreated water could have on an ecosystem.
The final decision is pending, with the deadline being pushed to early next month.