Gas fields seven times more polluting than estimate, think tank says

The true climate impact of new onshore gas exploration and extraction has been underestimated by as much as seven times because the Victorian government excluded emissions produced when the gas is burnt.

A moratorium on onshore gas exploration in Victoria will be lifted.

According to a new briefing paper from policy think tank the Australia Institute, the Andrews government's estimates do not count emissions produced when the gas is burnt for heating, cooking or other end uses.

Last month's lifting of the long-standing moratorium on onshore exploration was welcomed by gas producers, unions and manufacturers, which had called for it to be abolished, but environment groups remain fiercely opposed, arguing onshore drilling will drive up greenhouse gas emissions.

When he announced the lifting of the ban, Premier Daniel Andrews pledged any gas would first be made available to Victorian households and businesses.

Read the story from The Age by Miki Perkins - “Gas fields seven times more polluting than estimate, think tank says.”