NSW’s fossil fuel madness ramps up 350 org

Dear friend,

As you probably know, NSW has a history scarred by fossil fuels — endless stories of coal and gas projects thrust upon communities, trashing precious places and productive lands, and forcing climate change impacts upon the world.

This past month, in the lead up to a state election, it seems the fossil fuel madness has gone to the next level in NSW.

We’ve had leaked proposals for 16 new coal mines in the Upper Hunter Valley*, a region already grappling with decades of pit digging and coal dust. Then the cancellation of coal seam gas licences over large parts of central Sydney and the Illawarra, a great win for many in the area! But still no commitment from the Government to permanently rule out coal seam gas licences that cover NSW water catchments. And just yesterday, Premier Baird said that, if granted another term, he’d work hard to expand the industry.

And then there’s the logic-defying approval of Rio Tinto’s Warkworth Coal Mine, and the suggestion that the nearby village of Bulga may be relocated. Yes, that’s right, an entire town to be moved because Rio Tinto wants to scrape the last profits from the bottom of the coal barrel.

With an election just around the corner, and public outrage swelling, now is the time to show Premier Baird that we believe in a future powered by the sun and wind, and that communities deserve to be protected from Big Coal and Gas who’ll stop at nothing to make a buck.

Premier Baird needs to hear loud and clear from voters that it’s time for coal seam gas to be banned in NSW and to leave Bulga alone. Call his office today – (02) 8574 5000 and register your concerns. Then click here to encourage others to call Premier Baird too.

The story of Bulga speaks to what is so deeply wrong about the coal industry and their influence over our politicians. Twice, the community has challenged approval of the mine in the courts, and twice they have won. But rather than respect the verdict of the people and the courts, the Government has worked behind the scenes with Rio Tinto to rewrite the legislation and once again have the mine approved.

Make sure the Premier hears how outrageous this proposal is and that its time to stop new coal mines and rule out coal seam gas. Call now – (02) 8574 5000.

As the Queensland election showed, when we mobilise at the right moment, communities can change who holds power and lay down strong demands. This is the opportunity that the next few weeks present. Help build this pressure by putting through a call to the Premier’s office today – (02) 8574 5000.

Thanks for all you do!

Blair – for the 350.org Australia Team

P.S: Check out Lock the Gates’ infographic to learn more about where coal and coal seam gas expansion is proposed for NSW. Sign up to learn more about the Bulga campaign here.

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*Sydney Morning Herald, “A Massive Increase in Coal Mining is a Cause for Concern“, March 4th.

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