May 14 2007
A reversal of the Labor party’s stance on new uranium mines was welcomed today by the chairman of the Australian Environment Foundation, Don Burke.
“The further development of the uranium mining industry is good news for the environment” said Mr Burke.
“Nuclear power generation, which accounts for 16 per cent of all electricity generated worldwide, produces no greenhouse gas emissions and therefore should be considered by all who care for the environment.”
“With electricity production accounting for 40 per cent of the world’s energy needs and this figure is expected to rise with growing global output – all clean options for power generation, including renewable energy, should be part of the solution to cutting greenhouse gas emissions globally.”
According to the Australian Uranium Association demand for uranium is expected to increase by as much as 50 per cent in the next two decades.
Support by the major political parties for the expansion of the uranium mining industry will enable Australia to capitalise on choices other countries make about their energy requirements.
“The decision taken at the Labor party national conference this weekend by the delegates is a reflection of the realities of the world in which we live. Delegates considered all the options and decided to change party policy, which will suit current desired environmental outcomes.”
“If other countries power generation needs can be met using Australian uranium then the Australian economy will benefit and global greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced” concluded Mr Burke.