Hunter people show the way on climate change

MEDIA RELEASE - 26 OCTOBER 2006 Hundres of people will form a giant human sign on Nobby's Beach on November 4 as Newcastle's contribution to the International Day of Action on Climate Change. The sign will read "Beyond coal ... renewable energy" to convey the message that Newcastle must make the transition from coal to renewable energy if we are to avoid runaway climate change. The day's activity is being organised by Climate Action Newcastle (CAN), a newly-formed lobby and education group campaigning for solutions to climate change. "Newcastle is a global climate change hot spot" said Climate Action Newcastle spokesperson Vicki Brooke, "as it is the world's largest coal export port. We are responsible for sending 80 million tonnes of climate-changing coal overseas every year". Ms Brooke added "We can no longer afford to keep burning coal and sending carbon into the atmosphere if we wish to sustain life on earth. We must put a cap on coal at existing levels and make the shift to renewable energy". CAN wants the people of Newcastle and the Hunter to send a strong message to all politicians that it's time to make the change from coal to renewable energy. CAN is calling for a legislated renewable energy target in NSW of 25% by 2020, with 20% by 2014, in line with targets set by the South Australian Government. The beach sign will bring together people from all areas of the Hunter and from all walks of life, including lawyers, doctors, teachers, students and businesspeople. The sign will be a powerful expression of peoples' concern over government inaction on climate change. The large, colourful sign presents a great aerial photo opportunity. It should attract local, national and international media coverage. People are asked to assemble at 1pm between the Surf Lifesaving Club and the lighthouse at Nobby’s Beach on Saturday 4 November for a 2 pm photo shoot. For further information contact Vicki Brooke: 0425 243 860 Geoff Evans (prior to Nov 4): 0418 261 404