Press release - 2 July, 2009
Greenpeace deplores President José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero's decision to extend the operating life of the dangerous nuclear plant Garoña (Burgos province) for four more years till 2013.
"Zapatero's failure to live up to his electoral promise is also
a big step back in Spain's goal of achieving a sustainable energy
model based on 100% renewable energy and energy efficiency," said
Aslihan Tumer, Greenpeace International Nuclear Campaigner.
This decision means the continued exposure of the population and
the environment to an increased risk of a nuclear accident from
this dangerous plant. Garoña is outdated as it was inaugurated back
in 1971. In a clear demonstration that it has ended its life, the
reactor has been suffering from severe cracking and corrosion,
affecting various components of the reactor vessel.
President Zapatero himself has repeatedly stated that the plant
is not necessary for the national energy mix.
Other contacts: Aslihan Tumer, Greenpeace International Nuclear Campaigner:
+31 (0) 6 46162022
Alexandra Dawe, Greenpeace International Nuclear Communications:
+31 (0) 6 29001146
Greenpeace International Press Desk:
+31 (0) 20 718 2470