Letter
The road to climate change denial
It makes sense: “belittling existential climate threat is a misguided strategy”, especially in regional Australia where farmers and others see first-hand the effects of rising temperatures and unpredictable extreme weather. However it is also a mistake to assume that any debate about energy policy is rational, or honest.
The Gina Rinehart-backed Liontown lithium mine in Western Australia is 80 per cent powered by one of Australia’s largest off-grid wind farms, and also has extensive solar and battery storage. In its reporting, the Murdoch press lauded Gina’s foresight in the midst of oil shortages. The mine is already at a huge advantage and will continue to reap the benefits of renewables as shortages continue. Ms Rinehart, One Nation, Mr Canavan et al have been bitterly opposed to renewable energy (except when it comes to receiving rebates for installing solar panels on their own houses). Is it a case of opposing renewables on principal because it has been made into a ‘left’ agenda, and therefore political capital can be garnered, but in private take every advantage of the cheapest, most efficient energy source available?
You have to wonder: why is Ms Rinehart so opposed to the nation having what she’s having?
— Fiona Colin from Melbourne