Story perspectives
Queensland's Abandoned Boreholes Emit Methane of 10,000 Cars
9/4/2025
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Story summary
- A single abandoned coal borehole in Queensland emits methane equivalent to 10,000 cars each year.
- Queensland has approximately 130,000 similar boreholes, many with uncertain sealing quality.
- The study identifies a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, calling for sealing of high-emission boreholes.
- Methane's potency, being 80 times greater than CO2 over 20 years, underscores the need for effective control measures.
