UK's first new coal mine in 30 years gets approval

At least 85% of the coal produced at the mine will be exported, because UK steelmakers have already rejected the coal, which has a high sulphur content. The coal is also unlikely to be exported to Europe, because most European steelmakers are now using electric arc furnaces and renewable energy, rather than coal to make new steel. So the mine is not likely to help with reducing the need for coal to be imported to the UK.

The ministerial decision is almost certain to be appealed, with environmental groups arguing that the UK would risk breaching its target for reaching net zero emissions by 2050 if the mine is allowed to go ahead. Ed Miliband, the shadow climate change secretary said that Mr Gove’s decision signalled “the death knell of any claims this government has to climate leadership.” Meanwhile, CEO of environmental law firm Client Earth, Laura Clarke said the decision “Makes no sense in terms of the science, the economics, or indeed the UK’s legally binding net a zero targets.” Meanwhile, Chairman of the UK's Climate Change Committee, Lord Deben said that it was “another example of Britain saying one thing and doing another.”

When burned, coal produces almost double the amount of carbon dioxide as natural gas. This is why any new coal mining operations are seen as a threat to the UK’s net zero targets. Alok Sharma has pointed out that as many as 6,000 new lbs could be created by developing green industries in the area instead.

Protesters against the mine intend to gather in Penrith, Cumbria on 9 December and at the proposed site of the mine, outside Whitehaven on 10 December.

Photo of Whitehaven Harbour 229642326 © Geoffrey Allerton | Dreamstime.com

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