Coal industry brought back to ground

Press Release: Save Happy Coalition
28th February 2008

At the NZ Power conference Don Elder was confronted with the reality of climate change and rising emissions that result from usage. Energy Minister, David Parker made a surprise move and directly criticized Don Elder for his enthusiasm towards coal while lacking zeal for renewable energy, saying that it was a pity he was not so enthusiastic for renewables.

The coal industry has come under fire internationally from climate change campaigners, environmental groups and scientists. James Hansen has called for coal to be left in the ground, as has Al Gore. While Lignite reserves in southland have been proven, Carbon Capture and Storage have not.

Clean energy is needed, not hot air. New Zealand needs to reduce emissions and halt heavy polluting activities that burn coal and are reliant on a finite fossil fuel that is globally a key source of carbon dioxide emissions and human-induced climate change.

The Save Happy Valley Coalition calls for Don Elder to come clean on the reality of climate change and coal. Solid Energy should be moving to renewable energy not expanding its coal operations. Clean rivers, clean air and reduction of emissions don't mix with coal. Australia boasts an out of control coal industry that dictates national energy policy. Don Elder's desire for New Zealand to follow Australia ignores sky rocketing Australian emissions and massive droughts, which are partially due to climate change and failed climate policies.

The climate minister has made the first step and used international science recommendations, endorsing renewables in favour of fossil fuels, and recognizing that Carbon Capture and Storage is neither economically nor technically proven at scale.

ENDS

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