No blasting for Darwin’s LNG project

The proposed main channel for Inpex’s Ichthys LNG project is blocked by a ridge of rock in the East Arm of Darwin Harbour, but the original plan to blast it came under fire, and the final Environmental Impact Assessment includes a supplement of responses to the submissions received during the eight week public review period.

Inpex’s Seiya Ito said: “In responding to submissions received on the draft EIS, we have revisited key elements of the project to ensure we have committed to the best outcomes for the project and the community.”

Changes include the use of new dredging technology that eliminates the need for marine blasting and the reduction of the overall dredge volume by one million cubic metres.

Further, dredging will be undertaken over a longer time period and combined with techniques that reduce potential sedimentation in sensitive areas.

Mr Ito said there were plans to support savannah fire management projects in the Northern Territory designed to partially offset greenhouse gas emissions.

The project has also committed to a number of long-term research programs, including into better understanding of the numbers and habits of coastal dolphins, extensive water quality monitoring and further investigations into harbour ecosystems.