Boris' airport hopes need grounding4 October 2012
The impact would damage moves against climate change.
London Mayor Boris Johnson has again called for a new airport in the Thames Estuary.
But such an airport would waste taxpayers' money and increase pollution, says Friends of the Earth.
Johnson's speech to business leaders also took shots at those who support a third runway at Heathrow Airport.
The Mayor of London says a third Heathrow runway is 'simply mad' - but a Thames Estuary airport or expanding Stansted (airport) would be equally crazy.
Andrew Pendleton, Head of Campaigns, Friends of the Earth
The "need" for an airport
London already has more flights to the world's top business centres than its European competitors - so a new airport doesn't make economic sense, said Pendleton, adding:
Boris' pie in the sky airport expansion plans would have a huge impact on local communities and would undermine UK efforts to tackle climate change.
Andrew Pendleton, Head of Campaigns, Friends of the Earth
Why we're against expansion or building a new airport
- Would lead to a huge increase in carbon dioxide emissions when UK laws require huge cuts
- More noise, pollution and the demolition of homes
- Economic benefits are overstated; environmental impacts understated
- London doesn't need it
Read more about the Friends of the Earth view of airport expansion.
