Environmental Organization Withdraws from Scarborough Litigation

Woodside and the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) have reached an agreement to withdraw the ACF’s legal challenge against Woodside’s Scarborough Energy Project. The project has received all necessary environmental approvals and is progressing well with offshore work. The Federal Court proceedings sought to halt offshore activities for the project, but the case has now been dismissed. Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill expressed relief at the resolution, stating that litigation against energy projects like Scarborough is not an effective way to address global climate and energy challenges. O’Neill emphasized the low carbon intensity of the Scarborough reservoir and its potential as a source of LNG for north Asian markets.

The ACF, represented by the Environmental Defenders Office, decided not to proceed with the legal case due to concerns about the likelihood of success and the limitations of Australia’s environmental laws. The ACF highlighted the lack of explicit requirements for considering climate damage in key national nature laws, allowing major fossil fuel projects to be approved without adequate consideration of their long-term environmental impact. The ACF’s decision reflects ongoing challenges in advocating for stronger environmental protections in the face of industry interests.

The Scarborough Energy Project, located in the Carnarvon Basin off the Pilbara coast of Western Australia, is a joint venture comprising offshore facilities and pipeline connections to existing LNG facilities. The project is well underway, with significant progress made towards completion by 2026. Despite the legal challenges and environmental concerns, Woodside remains committed to delivering the project and contributing to the energy needs of the region while minimizing carbon emissions.

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