Decades of aggressive marketing to Australians has led to several misconceptions about gas. In reality, gas is far from clean; it is a polluting fossil fuel that is already harming health, wellbeing and, of course, the climate. With more gas in the mix, this risk of harm only increases. This report is about Australia’s gas industry, the threat it poses to health, and the way out: of kicking the gas habit for a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future.
The key findings are:
1. Unconventional gas development, including fracking, is exposing Australian communities to unnecessary health risks.
2. Burning gas at home can harm children’s health.
3. Children and poorer households are at highest risk from, and most likely to be harmed by, gas production and use.
4. Gas is a polluting fossil fuel. Governments can prevent health issues, and reduce harm, by helping households, and the country, get off gas.
5. Clean energy alternatives like solar and wind are the key to a prosperous, healthy future for all Australians.