The Federal Court is currently reviewing Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek's assessment of coal mine proposals in New South Wales, following a challenge by the Environmental Council of Central Queensland. 

The case, potentially pivotal in evaluating the government's environmental scrutiny of new coal and gas projects, questions whether assessments of the Narrabri and Mount Pleasant mines were sufficient in addressing climate change impacts.

Previously, the court upheld Plibersek's conclusion that these projects would not significantly increase global greenhouse gas emissions, despite scientific consensus on the need for emission reductions to counteract climate change threats. 

This decision has paused the approval of 19 similar proposals, awaiting the outcome of the current appeal.

Critics, including Climate Council's Dr Simon Bradshaw, argue the approval of new mines overlooks the substantial climate risks, with the emissions from the two mines in question potentially tripling Australia's annual carbon footprint. 

The case highlights the tension between economic development and environmental protection, with outcomes that could reshape Australia's approach to fossil fuel projects and its commitment to combating climate change.