Double standards on climate crisis
Monday, 29 January 2007
Double standards on climate crisis being exposed
Greens candidates around NSW are highlighting Labor's inconsistencies on the coal industry as a key campaign tactic, according to Greens MP and Upper House candidate Lee Rhiannon.
Ms Rhiannon who is today touring coal mines in the Hunter Valley to expose their contribution to global warming,\ said: "We are particularly targeting Labor candidates who talk big on climate change but refuse to buck their party's commitment to the coal industry.
"In the seat of Balmain where we have our best of breaking through into the Lower House, Labor candidate and Sydney City Councillor Verity Firth voted on Council to support a motion to stop the proposed massive coal mine at Anvil Hill in the Upper Hunter.
"Greens candidate for Balmain and Leichhardt Councillor Rochelle Porteous is running a strong campaign linking climate change and the coal industry.
"If elected to parliament, Ms Firth will be bound by ALP rules to support her party's expansion of the coal industry.
"This is not only a disaster for the environment but also will cost NSW jobs and export opportunities. As Australian ideas and engineers head overseas where real commitment to reducing emissions has created a strong business environment for renewable energy, this state is being left behind.
"The future is in exporting renewable energy technologies, not coal.
"Addressing greenhouse gas emissions requires more than pious sounding words and a few boutique demonstration projects. It requires both a serious commitment to renewable energy and phasing out this state's economic dependence on coal.
"Greens candidate for Sydney and Deputy Lord Mayor Chris Harris is showing the way by promoting solar thermal electric energy to power the City. This is just one of many renewable technologies that can provide a reliable and affordable supply of electrical energy without destroying the climate.
"Labor candidates across NSW will find it increasingly difficult to hide behind words. The Greens are demanding action," Ms Rhiannon said
