SYDNEY, Monday 23 Sept 2024 — In response to Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s address to CEDA this afternoon, the following comments can be attributed to Joe Rafalowicz, Head of Climate and Energy at Greenpeace Australia Pacific:
“Since its inception, Greenpeace has proudly campaigned against nuclear weapons and nuclear power.
“Nuclear energy is no solution to the climate crisis — it is a dangerous distraction that will lock us into coal and gas for decades to come, and hold back the rollout of the clean renewable energy needed to slash climate pollution today.
“Far from ‘visionary’, the Opposition’s reckless nuclear fantasy ignores the deep concerns raised by our Pacific neighbours, many of whom are still grappling with the devastating legacy of nuclear testing on their lands.
“As a signatory to the Treaty of Rarotonga, Australia has committed to keeping the Pacific free of radioactive materials and pollution. The Opposition is yet to outline its plans to store the risky, toxic waste generated by its nuclear reactors.
“The reality is the renewable energy transition is well underway in Australia. As one of the world’s sunniest, windiest countries with a strong industrial base, we are in prime position to reap the economic opportunities the clean energy transition brings.
“Greenpeace Australia Pacific will continue to champion a nuclear-free future in our region and advocate for clean, safe, affordable wind and solar energy for all Australians.”
-ENDS-
For more information or interviews contact Kate O’Callaghan on 0406 231 892 or kate.ocallaghan@greenpeace.org
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