Labor faces decisions on approval of up to 27 coal developments including greenfield mines

The Albanese government could face decisions on whether to approve up to 27 coal mining developments, based on applications lodged under national environment laws.

An analysis by the Sunrise Project, a climate activist group, found 13 greenfield coalmines and 14 extensions of existing mines had been referred to the federal government for assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.

The Greens have called for a moratorium on new coal and gas mines, reflecting assessments by climate scientists and statements by the UN secretary-general, António Guterres, and the International Energy Agency that they are inconsistent with the goals of the Paris climate agreement. Several independent MPs have adopted a similar position.

The new independent MP for Wentworth, Allegra Spender, told Guardian Australia the government must oppose all new greenfield coalmines and expansions of thermal coal projects used to fuel high-emitting power plants.

The Sunrise analysis listed 16 coal mining projects in Queensland and 11 in NSW that had been referred for assessment under the EPBC Act. It based its estimate of the potential emissions from the developments on coal data included in environmental impact statements and planning documents.

It then resisted international pledges to phase out their use of coal-fired power, end investment in overseas fossil fuel developments and cut methane emissions 30% by 2030. Labor has said it was considering joining the methane deal, led by the US and EU.

Plibersek will give her first major speech on her environment and water portfolio when she releases the delayed state of the environment report at the National Press Club next week.