Over 100 Arrested in 2-Day Blockade at World’s Largest Coal Port.
In a significant protest against climate inaction, activists took to Australia’s Newcastle port, causing the arrest of 109 individuals.
Using kayaks and swimming, hundreds disrupted the shipping lane, claiming to halt over half a million tonnes of coal export from the world’s second-biggest coal exporter.
The Port of Newcastle, vital for coal shipments, witnessed a 30-hour blockade involving 3,000 participants, approved by police.
Despite the approved timeframe, 109 arrests occurred as some protesters persisted. Among them was 97-year-old Alan Stuart, expressing concern for future generations. The action, organized by Rising Tide, is hailed as Australia’s “biggest act of civil disobedience for climate.”
The protest comes ahead of COP28, the global climate summit. Rising Tide demands the government tax coal exports and halt new fossil fuel projects.
Despite a promise to curb emissions, Australia, historically criticized for climate policies, has approved new coal mines, raising concerns about commitment to climate goals.
Seventeen-year-old protester Anjali Beams criticized decision-makers for ignoring the youth’s voices and risking the future for profit. The government’s recent emissions reduction target is noted, but concerns persist regarding ongoing fossil fuel projects.
Source: BBC News
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-67539759