An early morning Sydney protest organised by the Nature Conservation Council of NSW and Greenpeace has sent a clear message to the NSW government that the community does not support plans to build new coal-fired power stations.
Office workers and commuters joined the nearly 10,000 people that have already signed a petition requesting that the NSW Parliament develop a responsible phase out plan for existing coal-fired power stations, and support job creation in renewable energy industries.
When the NSW Cabinet considers a proposal for a moratorium on new coal-fired power stations in NSW in coming weeks it should heed the public support for meeting the state’s energy needs through renewable energy, including solar thermal and wind energy.
“Almost half of NSW’s total greenhouse emissions are from stationary energy, with electricity generation from fossil fuels the major polluter,” said Nature Conservation Council Chief Executive Officer Pepe Clarke today.
“We’re seeking a commitment from the NSW government that they will help avoid catastrophic climate change by transitioning NSW away from dirty coal power and towards renewable energy.
“A ban on new coal-fired power stations would be a progressive first step towards a clean energy future. It would open up opportunities for building large solar thermal plants in the outback and encourage investment in clean energy jobs across the state.”
“Building new coal fired power stations in this day and age is environmental and economic lunacy – the Government must invest in innovative clean renewable energy to take this state in to the future,” said Greenpeace Climate Campaign Team Leader Trish Harrup.
“In the lead-up to the state elections, the citizens of NSW will be making it clear to both the Government and the Opposition that new coal fired power stations are not needed or wanted. Any Government that wants to be taken seriously on climate change will have to listen,” Ms Harrup said.
