Elder's Greenwash Not Sustainable
Save Happy Valley Christchurch : 23rd August 2006
Members of Save Happy Valley Christchurch called Solid Energy CEO Don Elder to account last night at the annual Hopkins lecture where he had the arrogance to speak on "The Economy and Energy: are both sustainable?"
Elder was interrupted by a Kiwi looking around the audience and loudly calling for its mate. Later, two activists took centre stage as they addressed the crowd on why Elder had no right to speak on the topic of sustainability while his company was driving species to extinction, polluting waterways and contributing to climate change.
Despite the event being billed as a public meeting, there was a heavy security presence, leaving Save Happy Valley Christchurch to wonder if the definition of "public" is somehow different for those in control of environmental destruction.
"With at least six security guards and five police officers at the meeting, it is clear that Elder knows what he is doing is wrong, and that there is heavy public opposition to it" said Save Happy Valley Christchurch spokesperson Frances Mountier.
"Even when the predominantly academic audience posed questions to Elder about sustainability, the security guards bought the questions abruptly to an end, claiming they were 'off-topic'! Clearly, even the security knew that coal is, by its very definition unsustainable, and thus Elder would not be able to answer.
"Solid Energy's plans for Happy Valley show they are anything but interested in true sustainability. Elder apparently believes he is able to destroy the environment with impunity. In collusion with the Department of Conservation, Solid Energy has changed and then broken their permit for moving Powelliphanta Augustus snails, attempting to drive the species to extinction. Meanwhile, at their Strongman Mine, a 1000 hectare fire rages out of control over 4-5km. Elder lobbies for the continuation of one of the most climate polluting industries. Tonight we have called him to account, and we will continue to do so until society's demand for a sustainable future is met".
ENDS
Media Contact
Frances Mountier, SHV Christchurch spokesperson
021 1757484
Notes
Save Happy Valley Christchurch is a group committed to stopping Solid Energy's proposed environmental destruction in Happy Valley (Upper Waimangaroa Valley) on the West Coast. They work to raise awareness on climate change in New Zealand. They are also deeply concerned about the fate of all endangered species under threat from Solid Energy – such as the Powelliphanta snail at the nearby Mt Augustus. The group has a track record of creative protests, occupations and lock-ons as well as producing a variety of informative media. More information about the Save Happy Valley Coalition and its history can be found at http://www.savehappyvalley.org.nz/aboutus.htm
