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Greenpeace closes world's largest coal port

By Greenpeace International

On July 27 Greenpeace's flagship, the Rainbow Warrior, closed down the world's largest coal export port in Newcastle and called on Australia to quit coal and tackle climate change by moving to a clean energy economy.

The Rainbow Warrior dropped anchor in the channel leading to the Kooragang and Carrington terminals in Newcastle harbor. In addition, teams of activists occupied a 2.5 million ton coal stockpile and one of four huge coal loaders.

Greenpeace Australia climate and energy campaigner Ben Pearson said: "We are here today to expose Australia's dangerous addiction to coal export dollars and its significant contribution towards global climate change. Newcastle sends 80 million ton of coal to the world each year, and every ton causes worse droughts, bushfires, storms and floods. Every hour that we are here, we stop coal that could emit thousands of tons of greenhouse gases from leaving."

Australia is a major exporter of pollution and a climate destroyer. It exports coal to thirty-five countries. In 2002-03, 80 percent (165 million tons) went to Asia. The main customers are Japan and South Korea. Taiwan, India, China, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines buy Australian coal.

"By continuing to export coal to Asia, Australia is locking developing countries into a fossil fuel future that perpetuates climate change, ignores sustainability and denies their independence from imported and expensive fuel. This behavior is despicable and must be stopped," said Athena Ronquillo from Greenpeace International.

Australia has the potential to be a world leader in renewable energy exports, sharing its vast solar and wind resources to its neighboring countries in the region. It could play a more constructive role in addressing poverty and environmental issues in these already vulnerable economies by supporting their shift to safe, clean energy sources.

"Coal burns our common future but renewable energy unites us.  By embracing renewable energy, Australia will embrace a future common to Asia as well --- a clean, sustainable future," Ronquillo concluded.

Greenpeace's flagship sailed into Sydney Harbor on July 22nd. She will visit China, Thailand and Philippines as part of the “Clean Energy Revolution Tour” to raise the urgency of dangerous climate change and promote the huge potential of renewable energy and energy efficiency in Asia Pacific region.