Cement Australia's Railton Plant to Upgrade with Alternative Fuels Amid Conservation Concerns
Could native forests be Cement Australia's 'sustainable' fuel option?
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Cement Australia is upgrading its Railton kiln in Tasmania to incorporate alternative fuels like used tyres and wood waste, aiming to reduce fossil fuel reliance. However, conservationists warn that sourcing wood from native forests could negate environmental benefits. The project, costing $108 million, is expected to commence operations by Q3 2026.
- 01Cement Australia's Railton plant will undergo a $108 million upgrade to accept alternative fuels, including 30% wood chips and 5% used tyres.
- 02The project is expected to cut coal use by 111,000 tonnes annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 105,000 tonnes.
- 03Conservationists, including Greens senator Nick McKim, oppose the use of native forest wood waste, citing potential increases in emissions.
- 04The Tasmanian Environment Protection Authority approved the project with strict conditions regarding emissions and noise.
- 05The Railton kiln, operational since 1922, will temporarily halt production for approximately 45 days during the upgrade.
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Cement Australia is investing $108 million to upgrade its Railton plant in north-west Tasmania, aiming to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels by incorporating alternative sources such as used tyres and wood waste. The project is part of a broader decarbonisation strategy, with plans for alternative fuels to account for 35% of the kiln's fuel use by 2024. However, conservationists express concerns that sourcing wood waste from native forests could lead to increased emissions and environmental degradation. Greens senator Nick McKim has called for the federal funding for the project to be rescinded, arguing it supports harmful logging practices. The Tasmanian Environment Protection Authority has approved the upgrade with strict conditions on emissions, while local officials, including Kentish Council Mayor Kate Haberle, have welcomed the investment as vital for the plant's future. Cement Australia asserts that it will source wood waste sustainably and that the project will not drive increased logging activity.
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The upgrade is expected to secure jobs at the Railton plant while transitioning to more sustainable fuel sources.
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