[Greens-Media] Hunter coal expansion shatters Labor’s credibility on global warming

[Susie Gemmell]

MEDIA RELEASE
31 July 2007

Hunter coal expansion shatters Labor’s credibility on global warming


Greens MP and mining spokesperson Lee Rhiannon will join protesters
from across NSW today at a Newcastle climate change protest targeting
expansion of the coal industry.

Speaking in Newcastle today, Ms Rhiannon said "NSW Labor’s
credibility on climate change is in tatters because the Iemma government
is set to approve major extensions of two Upper Hunter coalmines. 

“The planned expansion of Bengalla and the Mt Arthur coalmines could
add well over a billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions to the
world’s climate change burden.

“The Bengalla mine, situated 4km from Muswellbrook, currently
produces 6.2 million tonnes of coal per annum.  When burnt this adds
16.1 million tonnes of CO² to the earth’s atmosphere each year.  

“If the Bengalla mine is expanded, it could produce up to 149 million
tonnes of coal over the 29 year life of the mine and 387 million tonnes
of CO².

“BHP Billiton’s Mt Arthur mine, located 5km from Muswellbrook,
currently produces 15 million tonnes of coal per annum.  When burnt this
adds 39 million tonnes of CO² to the earth’s atmosphere each year.

“If the Mt Arthur mine is expanded, it could produce up to 440
million tonnes of coal which, when burnt would create 1,144 million
tonnes of CO².

“It’s not too late for Labor to reverse its stance and start
investing in clean alternative energy solutions.

“Labor’s subservient relationship with the coal industry is
jeopardising the Hunter’s economic and environmental future.
 
“Hunter workers should be offered new jobs in sustainable industries
rather than being locked into polluting industries of yesteryear. 
 
“There is a groundswell of support for the move away from polluting
coal towards investing in renewable energy. 

“Today’s protest is an urgent call for Labor to take real action on
climate change.

For more information:  Lee Rhiannon – 0427 861 568


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Susie Gemmell
Adviser, Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon (p/t Mon-Wed)
Macquarie St, Sydney 2000
Tel: +61-2-9230 3551 Fax: +61-2-9230 3550
Mobile: 0431 458 102
Email susie.gemmell at parliament.nsw.gov.au
Web www.leerhiannon.org.au