Wales challenges Europe on climate change

IssueNovember 2009
News by Kelvin Mason

Plaid Cymru MEP Jill Evans hosted a visit of climate campaigners from Wales to Brussels in mid-October. Campaigners urged European politicians to act decisively ahead of the UN climate change conference in Copenhagen later this year.

The Welsh group visiting Brussels, many of whom participated in Climate Camp Cymru, included Vicky Moller, an Ecotour operator; Sue Hutchinson, a town councillor; Siobhan Ashe from Newport, Pembrokeshire; James Cass from the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth; Jan Cliff from Sundance Renewables, Carmarthenshire; and Aled Vaughan Owen from Menter Cwm Gwendraeth.

Plaid MEP Jill Evans said: “Climate change is the greatest threat and the greatest challenge facing our planet today. I wanted Europe’s policy makers to listen directly to representatives from Wales who are demanding action.… Wales can take a lead in the fight against climate change… these campaigners from all over the country have been making the case for a global emissions cut directly to the team that will be negotiating in Copenhagen later this year.”

One of the campaigners, Siobhan Ashe, explained: “We are passionate about climate change, wanting to influence our leaders before it’s too late. We may not be scientists but we have common sense, and that is all it takes to stop dangerous climate change.”

“It is in Brussels that the UK and Welsh negotiating positions will be decided.”

In Brussels, the group met various MEPs, as well as European commission officials who are working on preparations for the important Copenhagen climate conference in December.

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