Climate Camp '09. Credit: Damian Baker.
By Rich Bowden
Attendees at the Climate Camp ’09 have focused on pollution in local water supply caused by the expansion of the Metropolitan Colliery in Helensburgh, on NSW’s south coast.
Beginning the Camp on Friday with a banner drop over Woronora dam stating “Water Not Coal,” the group looked to draw attention to the fact that Woronora water – one of Sydney’s most reliable drinking sources – is threatened by a Government decision to approve a $50 million expansion of the Metropolitan Collieries.
The green light for expansion will allow longwall mining to take place directly underneath the Woronora dam, say the group.
“While we are faced with increasing drought and population it is insane to keep damaging the city’s precious water resources. It’s ridiculous. We can’t drink coal.” says Caroline Graham, of environmental alliance Rivers SOS in a statement.
Climate Camp Spokesperson, Jess Miller said that Climate Camp ’09 was about highlighting the Government’s decision to promote coal over water supplies.
“Climate Camp 09 is about ensuring that a healthy, clean and safe life is guaranteed for our kids and communities and we fully support Rivers SOS,” she said.
However Peabody Energy, the U.S-based company which owns the Metropolitan Colliery, told Australian Associated Press (AAP) that the expansion of the colliery would have not significantly affect the local environment.
“Substantial scientific evidence supports the fact we have negligible impact on the reservoir and the rivulet,” spokeswoman Jennifer Morgans told AAP.
“Third party assessments found the mining will have no significant impact on quality or quantity of water.”
Organised protests at the Climate Camp include sustainable living, workshops and festivities, according to the group’s news release, which will culminate on Sunday with a peaceful demonstration against the expansion of the mine.
“When it comes to water, climate and jobs, our actions will speak louder than their words,” said Jess Miller.
For further details on Climate Camp ’09, please see website here.
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