Greenhouse gas emissions from Australian coal mining

The latest estimates of greenhouse gas emissions from the mining of black coal in Australia are presented, along with indications of the uncertainties from each of the source categories. The major sources are considered to be energy consumption, fugitive emissions and, particularly from open cut mines, waste coal oxidation, however the last of these being highly uncertain. The basis for emissions from waste coal oxidation is briefly detailed. Some of the mitigation options are outlined, and current practices reviewed, as well as obstacles that impede the implementation of mitigation techniques. The major room for improvement will be from reducing fugitive emissions from underground mines.