Climate Change Kayakers Blockade Coal Ship

This morning protesters in kayaks will blockade the Brisbane coal port to confront the Queensland Government about the expansion of Queensland's coal exports.

Protesters in kayaks and canoes will float a huge banner infront of the ship disrupting coal exports for the day.

“While Premier Bligh expands our coal industry and increases our economic dependence on coal, it is clear that she is not taking climate change seriously.” said Six Degrees spokesperson Bradley Smith.

“We want to know why the Queensland Government won't plan to break Queensland's coal addiction and transition to a sustainable economy?”

Globally coal is the biggest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which cause climate change. Despite this 21 new mines are under development in Queenland and exports are planned to double by 2030.

“It's time for the community to step in and demand a sustainable future” said Mr Smith.

The coal ship, Formosabulk no.4, had planned to depart for Taiwan today carrying 90 000 tonnes of Queensland coal, which will result in 180 000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.

“Every coal ship that leaves these shores is another nail in our climate's coffin” said Mr Smith.

2009 has seen increasing climate change protests in Australia and globally in response to rapid coal expansion and government failure to put in place effective strategies to reduce domestic emissions see: http://www.switchoffhazelwood.org/in Victoria, and http://climatecamp.org.au/ and http://www.risingtide.org.au/ in NSW. There is also a climate camp planned for Western Australia later this year.