Calls for NT fracking ban

A GROUP of Australia’s top scientists have written to the Northern Territory government urging for a permanent ban on fracking.

An independent report handed down last month cleared the way for a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing of gas deposits to be lifted, but the group, which includes the Climate Council’s Professor Will Steffen say the environmental impact would be unacceptable.

“Opening up huge new sources of fossil fuels like NT shale gas is completely incompatible with Australia’s commitments under the Paris Agreement,” Professor Steffen said yesterday.