COP 27: UK must follow Scotland's lead and end coal extraction
With COP 27 underway, the Scottish Greens have called for the UK government to follow Scotland's lead in ending support for coal extraction.
Last month, in her capacity as Minister for Biodiversity, the Scottish Greens Co-leader, Lorna Slater MSP, announced that the Scottish Government was opposed to any new coal extraction.
At present the UK government is considering an application for a new coal mine in Cumbria. The decision has been pushed back multiple times. It is reported that it will be on or before December 8, after COP 27. [1]
The Scottish Greens environment spokesperson, Mark Ruskell MSP, said:
"Warm words are not enough. If we are to avert climate catastrophe then it will need real and decisive action.
"Rishi Sunak may talk about the importance of renewables but if the UK Government approves a major new coal mine then it will speak far louder. It would be disastrous for our environment and for the UK's international obligations and reputation.
“With Scottish Greens in government, we have made clear that we will oppose any new coal extraction in Scotland.
"We have also announced an end to new incinerators, with a declining cap on incineration, and have created a £500 million Just Transition fund while ensuring extra investment for nature restoration, recycling and infrastructure for walking, wheeling and cycling. We remain totally opposed to fracking and new oil and gas exploration.
"In contrast, the climate wrecking Tory government has doubled down on fossil fuels and the failed policies of the past.
“If he wants to leave a positive COP legacy then it's time for the Prime Minister to end the hot air and take the action that is needed. It's time for him to live up to the urgency of the crisis and ban coal extraction for good."