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Branson climate initiative - reaction
21 September 2006
Commenting on today's announcement by Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group of a 10-year, three billion dollar commitment to renewable energy initiatives, Friends of the Earth's head of campaigns, Mike Childs, said:
"As one of the top business leaders it's welcome that Richard Branson has recognised the urgent need to tackle climate change. Whilst his investment in bio-fuels is welcome, this can only be a small part of the solution, and must not distract from the need to cut emissions. Biofuels can provide a greener alternative to oil based fuels, but this is only true if they are produced sustainably and don't interfere with food production and biodiversity protection. Richard's Branson's train business will be an important part of the future, encouraging people to take the train instead of flying, but the fast growth in air flights can not be maintained without causing climatic disaster.
If Richard Branson is really concerned about climate change he should back growing calls for the Government to bring in a new climate change law, end airport expansion and bring in air fuel tax."
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jun 2008
