29 March 2023
The Greens have raised concerns about the State Government’s announcement today that it has given environmental approval for BHP’s Oak Dam exploration program.
“BHP has a chequered environmental record. Their Olympic Dam project, for instance, has faced criticism for its use of huge volumes of water from the Great Artesian Basin and its failure to strike financial agreements with native title claimants on its giant mining lease”, said SA Greens Mining Spokesperson Robert Simms MLC.
“The State Government must ensure that history won’t repeat itself. In particular, the Government must assure South Australians that there will be sufficient water for the project, that there has been adequate consultation with traditional owners, and that appropriate steps are being taken to conserve native vegetation.”