Unprecedented expansion of coal exploration and development across the state has prompted an innovative investigation of the social, economic and environmental effects of the coal industry on the lives of everyday Queenslanders, by everyday Queenslanders.

Listening tour in Gladstone

The Brisbane-based community group Six Degrees launched the Coal Communities Listening Project on 17th November in Gladstone.

The group is leaving Gladstone today with a better understanding of the community’s attitudes towards the coal industry and climate change.

“Most of the people we spoke to said that the coal industry brought money and jobs to the local economy, but many were also affected by coal dust and air pollution” said Bradley Smith, the project spokesperson.

“While many people believe that pollution is part-and-parcel of living in Gladstone, others had hopes that community groups could work together to create a cleaner future for the city.”

Today the tour will move on to Blackwater and then to Emerald, Alpha, Wandoan and Chinchilla, all areas which are currently experiencing the impacts of coal expansion.

[Follow the tour online here]