The climate crisis response

Newcastle Greens

MEDIA RELEASE
29 November 2006

Preferences and the climate crisis response

How the Sydney Labor Government responds to the landmark decision of Judge Nicola Pain in the Land and Environment Court will determine their political future, says Greens candidate for Newcastle, Cr Michael Osborne.

The Court found that the Government needs to take into account the impact on the climate crisis from burning coal.

“Is the Sydney Labor Government going to stop the environmental assessment process from considering the environmental impact of pollution from burning coal? It obviously contributes to the climate crisis.

“Again, I call on the Premier to show leadership and follow the resolution of Newcastle Council and:

1. Establish a cap on coal exports from Newcastle at existing levels.
2. Initiate an independent Inquiry into the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the current coal industry and proposed expansion of the Hunter Valley coal industry.
3. Pending such an Inquiry, initiate a moratorium on new coal mines at Anvil Hill and elsewhere in the Hunter Valley and Gunnedah Basin.
4. Establish a levy on the coal industry to fund the transition to sustainability in the Hunter beyond coal.

“This is a test of the commitment of the Sydney Labor Government.

“I’m sure Greens voters in the Hunter will be considering where to put their preferences based on the actions of the Sydney Labor Government responding to the climate crisis,” Cr Osborne said.