Over 100 Climate Activists Arrested in Australia's Largest Coal Port Protest
More than 100 climate change activists, organised by the Rising Tide group, were arrested after a two-day blockade of the Port of Newcastle, the world's largest coal port. The protest, involving around 1,500 participants, aimed to draw attention to Australia's role as the world's second-largest coal exporter and its dependence on fossil fuels for electricity.
During the 30-hour blockade, hundreds of activists utilised kayaks and swam in the port's shipping lane, preventing over half a million tonnes of coal from leaving the country. The Port of Newcastle, located 170 km from Sydney, is crucial for coal shipments, making the protest a significant act against climate inaction.
The action was approved by the police, with an estimated 3,000 participants, but as the protest deadline passed, dozens remained in the water, leading to 109 arrests, including five minors. Among those arrested was 97-year-old Reverend Alan Stuart, who stated, "I am doing this for my grandchildren and future generations because I don't want to leave them a world full of increasingly severe and frequent climate disasters."
Rising Tide, calling it the "biggest act of civil disobedience for climate in Australia's history," demands the Australian government tax thermal coal exports and cancel new fossil fuel projects. Despite a recent commitment to a 43% emissions reduction target by 2030, the government has approved new coal mines, sparking further anger amongst activists.
The protest, strategically timed just days before COP28, the global climate change summit, highlights the urgency felt by Australians regarding climate issues. As legal challenges arise, including charges against protesters and concerns about the treatment of legal observers, the tension between activists and authorities reflects a growing divide on climate action in the country.
