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Green indicators show threats to environment and quality of life
8 December 1999
Friends of the Earth has welcomed the publication today of 'indicators' which reveal trends in our environment and quality of life. Despite some improvements, deeply worrying problems are revealed in areas such as the rise in traffic levels and household waste,climate change and the loss of species and wildlife habitats, and crucially, the impact of environmental degradation on the poor.
Charles Secrett, Director of Friends of the Earth said:
"This damning report on the state of our environment must be a wake up call to the Government, industry and consumers to go green before it is too late. It also confirms what Friends of the Earth has been saying for years: we will all suffer through trashing our planet, and the poor will suffer the most.
It is good that the Government has published these indicators, but it must take a lead on the urgent action that is required. Much greater investment is needed in the sustainable industries of the future such as public transport, renewable energy, waste minimisation and organic food. These will be good for the environment and health and create hundreds of thousands of jobs as well. Polluter pays taxes are also essential to help fund the investment we so desperately need, and encourage companies to reduce their impact on the environment. Without these measures the environmental problems we will have to face in the next century will spiral out of control.
Today's report also highlights the need for the Government to stand firm on its transport strategy. Calls to build more roads and allow even more traffic onto our already congested roads are economic and environmental madness.”
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jul 2008
