GREENPEACE: Labor governments quash nature protection at behest of miners

SYDNEY, Monday 3 February – Greenpeace Australia Pacific has slammed the Albanese government and WA Cook government for quashing promised national nature law reforms this term, a move it says is caving to mining and fossil fuel interests. 

This follows reports of the government pulling debate of the proposed reform Bills in the Senate this week off the back of concerted pressure from major fossil fuel and mining companies, as well as WA Premier Roger Cook.

Glenn Walker, Head of Nature at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, said:

“Australia’s environment is in serious decline; we have one of the worst rates of deforestation in the world, and we are sending our wildlife extinct, including the iconic koala.

“The Albanese government promised to end the extinction crisis and deliver a strong new nature law this term backed by an independent environment watchdog with teeth. The crossbench and environment groups stood ready to support a compromise deal to deliver part of the reforms through the Senate this week. It is deeply disappointing that the government has now walked away.

“Rather than standing up for nature and wildlife, Prime Minister Albanese and Premier Roger Cook have caved to big fossil fuel and mining executives railing against environmental protection in the interest of profits. The outcome will be devastating – more forest and habitat destruction, more wildlife killed, and a diminished natural environment for all Australians.

“As it heads into the next election, it’s critical the Albanese government makes it clear that these reforms will be a priority in the first 100 days of parliament if elected. We cannot have another wasted three years as wildlife continues to go extinct and our forests keep getting bulldozed.”

 

 

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