Greens call for energy rethink

23rd May 2008

In response to the news of record fuel prices, Prospective Green Party
Parliamentary Candidate for Sheffield Central Bernard said, "High oil prices are here to stay as demand for oil outstrips supply. This is already having an knock-on effect on the poorest. To really tackle this problem means rewriting from scratch the Sheffield Economic Masterplan, which assumes plentiful and cheap energy and ignores the problems of climate change.

"Rising energy costs could actually bring about changes to our society for the better. Reopening local shops in easy reach of customers and suppliers will create a resilient economy. Properly insulated homes and systems that reduce energy demand and investing in renewable energy will stop energy bills and food prices rising. A low energy economic strategy will provide secure jobs in the construction, manufacturing and engineering industries. We need to enourage farmers and growers to produce food for local markets.

"Such a strategy will deliver the desired cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, build more cohesive local communities, improve public transport and tackle health problems by encouraging people to walk and cycle.

"We need real political leadership and vision. The Green Party are prepared to work with other Parties to make the transition to a socially just and environmentally stable economy".

ENDS