Greenpeace and The Body Shop launch global renewable energy
campaign
EMBARGOED FRI 7 JUNE
Auckland, Wednesday June 7, 2002: Greenpeace and The Body Shop joined forces today to launch an international campaign in the lead up to the Johannesburg Earth Summit, calling on world leaders to increase support for renewable energy to the developing world.
“We have an opportunity at the 2002 Earth Summit to set the developing world on a clean energy pathway. The alternative, of massive carbon dioxide emissions from dirty fossil fuels would be a disaster for the world’s climate," said Robbie Kelman, Greenpeace Climate Campaigner,
"It is hard to believe that in the 21st century, one third of the planet's population is living without access to basic energy services. Access to basic, clean energy is essential to alleviate poverty and provides major social and health benefits," said Maureen Soanes, Spokesperson for The Body Shop New Zealand.
The joint campaign calls on world leaders at the 2002 Earth Summit to recognise the serious implications of climate change and commit to providing renewable energy to the two billion people whom have no access to basic energy services.
The launch coincides with the final Preparatory meeting for the Earth Summit currently being held in Bali. Over half a million signatures have already been collected in the world-wide campaign ranging over 32 countries.
The public are being asked to join the campaign and sign petitions in The Body Shop's 17 stores across New Zealand for the next seven weeks.
For more information: Robbie Kelman,
Greenpeace, 021 565165, OR Maureen Soanes, The Body Shop,
07 8343174
http://www.greenpeace.org.au
http://www.thebodyshop.com.au
http://www.choosepositiveenergy.org