Press Release RSS Feedhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/en-gb(c) 2020, GreenpeaceThu, 13 Feb 2020 00:36:28 Z5about us/climate change/forests/nuclear/oceans/other issues/toxicsdb738d18-5093-4545-bfcf-526bf00ca79dhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Greenpeace-activists-call-out-Samsungs-sponsorship-of-Winter-Olympics-as-hypocrisy/Greenpeace activists call out Samsung’s sponsorship of Winter Olympics as hypocrisyBerlin, 30 January 2018 - Greenpeace activists in Berlin and Taipei called out Samsung for sponsoring this year’s Winter Olympic Games in South Korea, which are touted to be powered by 100% renewable energy. Renewables account for only 1% of Samsung Electronics’ total energy consumption.<p dir="ltr">In Berlin, Greenpeace Germany activists unfurled a banner of 40 square metres from the top of the construction site of Berlin City Castle. In Taipei, two banners ranging from 40 to 85 square metres were dropped from the top of Samsung’s stores by Greenpeace East Asia activists, with the messages “Go 100% RE right now #DoBiggerThings Now” and “Stop Fuelling Climate Change”.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Samsung needs to take action now and publicly commit to 100% renewables. Without meaningful and urgent action from industry leaders on climate change, we might be facing a future where there is no Winter Olympics left to sponsor,” said Jude Lee, Global Senior Campaigner at Greenpeace East Asia.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The actions come after months of campaigning on Samsung and less than 2 weeks away from the Winter Olympic Games in South Korea, the first in history to set a goal of being 100% renewably powered. Despite being one of the main sponsors, Samsung heavily relies on fossil fuels - renewables account for 1% of its total energy consumption, which amounted to 16,000GWh in 2016.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Samsung’s climate-warming pollution has increased 45% since the last Winter Olympic Games in Sochi. If this growth remains unchecked, Samsung’s emissions could increase an additional 60% by the next Winter Olympics in 2022,” said Lee.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">According to research led by Daniel Scott, a geography professor at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, climate change will cause <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/01/11/climate/winter-olympics-global-warming.html" target="_blank">many previous Winter Games locations to be too warm to host the Games again by 2050.</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The climate in many traditional winter sports regions isn’t what it used to be, and fewer and fewer places will be able to host the Olympic Winter Games as global warming accelerates,” said Prof. Scott.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Samsung has the largest smartphone market share globally and is one of the main suppliers of key components to other major tech brands, with 38 production sites and more than 2,000 suppliers across the world.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Samsung Electronics should commit to 100% renewable energy, and follow the steps of other major IT brands like Apple which have already committed to renewables. Greenpeace is calling on Samsung Electronics to urgently set a clear renewable energy goal for its own operations as well as its supply chain.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes</strong>:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1] Greenpeace has launched a global petition (available <a href="http://act.gp/2mUmAfN" target="_blank">here</a>) asking Samsung to commit to 100% RE.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[2] Samsung’s GHG emissions for its own operations (scope 1 &amp; 2) have increased from 9,290,000 tons CO2e in 2014 to 13,416,000 tons CO2e in 2017 (Samsung 2017 Forecast), representing a compound annual growth (CAGR) rate of 9.77%. &nbsp;Assuming this same rate of growth continued, Samsung’s GHG emissions would increase to 21,381,657 CO2e by 2022,the year of the next Winter Olympiad in Beijing, nearly an additional increase of 60% from 2017 forecast levels.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[3] Details on Samsung’s performance on renewable energy can be found in Greenpeace USA’s latest Guide to Greener Electronics, available <a href="http://act.gp/2mSusOI" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[4] ‘Olympic Games Impact(OGI) Study for the 2018 PyeongChang Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games’ report can be found <a href="https://www.pyeongchang2018.com/sustainability/reports/PyeongChang2018_OGI_report_2nd_edition.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[5] <strong>Photo</strong> and <strong>video</strong> collection <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/C.aspx?VP3=SearchResult&amp;ALID=27MZIFJXEIWFA&amp;utm_campaign=toxics&amp;utm_source=greenpeace.org&amp;utm_medium=post&amp;utm_term=no&amp;utm_content=press-release&amp;custom=apac" target="_blank">here</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts</strong>:</p><p></p><p>Maria Elena De Matteo, Global Communications Strategist, Greenpeace East Asia, +39-3281384774, <a href="mailto:mariaelena.dematteo@greenpeace.org">mariaelena.dematteo@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></p>Tue, 30 Jan 2018 05:46:00 Zclimate changetoxicsTristan Tremschnig28b93a41-39db-416c-8fb1-526f1079e6b8http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/No-Country-for-Cold-Men-Oscar-winning-actor-Javier-Bardem-visits-Antarctic-seafloor-in-research-submarine-to-call-for-protection-of-the-Antarctic-Ocean1/No Country for Cold Men: Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem visits Antarctic seafloor in research submarine to call for protection of the Antarctic OceanLondon, 30 January, 2018 - Just days after Greenpeace released rare footage of the Antarctic seafloor, Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem has dived in a two-person submarine to visit this remote location and call for the creation of a vast Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary. <p dir="ltr">After a <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/archive/Actor-Javier-Bardem-dives-in-Greenpeace-submarine-in-Antarctic-Ocean--with-Greenpeace-marine-biologist-John-Hocevar.-News-Edit-27MZIFJXE45T0.html" target="_top">two-hour dive to the seabed</a>, at a depth of 270m, near the Antarctic Peninsula, Javier Bardem described the "overwhelming variety of colors and life" in the Antarctic.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">"It is an incredibly important mission to go down and document these species in all their colorful existence and to prove the importance of protecting this unique ocean," said Bardem.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace is on a three-month expedition to the Antarctic to carry out scientific research, including seafloor submarine dives and sampling for plastic pollution, to highlight the urgent need for the creation of a 1.8 million square kilometre Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary to safeguard species like whales and penguins.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Bardem continued: “As soon as we reached the seafloor, I was completely amazed by the overwhelming variety of colors and life all around us. I’m not a biologist, but to find a pink, yellow and green world of corals and sponges at the bottom of the Antarctic Ocean was a real surprise to me.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“It was a very relaxed experience, even though I’d expected to become more nervous, as we dived into the deep. It is really impressive to witness the scientific research that is done on this expedition first-hand and I’m just very grateful to be allowed one dive in between the many others where a real Antarctic biologist is in the passenger seat!”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“To me, an experience like this shows exactly why we need to show respect as human beings. It is an incredibly important mission to go down and document these species in all their colorful existence to prove the importance of protecting a unique ocean that also feeds all the bigger animals in the Antarctic”.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">John Hocevar, a Greenpeace US marine biologist who piloted the submarine, said:&nbsp;“Being in a two-person submarine with Javier Bardem was awesome. He was a very relaxed passenger, especially considering this was his first dive. He seemed completely awestruck by the whole experience and so was I.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The proposal for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary has been submitted by the EU and will be considered when the Antarctic Ocean Commission next convenes, in October 2018.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Key findings from the footage gathered from the submarine dives will be shared with the Commission to establish localised protections as well as to strengthen this and other upcoming proposals for marine protection in the Antarctic.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">See footage of Javier Bardem’s submarine dive <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/archive/Actor-Javier-Bardem-dives-in-Greenpeace-submarine-in-Antarctic-Ocean--with-Greenpeace-marine-biologist-John-Hocevar.-News-Edit-27MZIFJXE45T0.html" target="_blank">here</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">See further photo and video of the expedition and submarine dives, see <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX9IE3D" target="_blank">here</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The petition to create an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary has already gathered over half a million signatures globally:<a href="http://protecttheantarctic.org/"> http://protecttheantarctic.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Luke Massey, Antarctic Global Communications Lead, Greenpeace UK, luke.massey@greenpeace.org, +44 (0) 7973 873 155</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Mon, 29 Jan 2018 23:48:00 Zoceansrfield0aa3bb92-f039-4975-9af6-254b3f3f434chttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Greenpeace-submarine-captures-rare-footage-of-the-Antarctic-seafloor-carpeted-with-life/Greenpeace submarine captures rare footage of the Antarctic seafloor ‘carpeted with life’London, 24 January 2018 - Greenpeace International has released its first submarine footage from a part of the Antarctic seafloor never before visited by humans. The footage shows a seafloor ‘carpeted with life’ as well as ‘clear indications of a vulnerable marine ecosystem’ — strong evidence of the need for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary to protect species like whales and penguins. <p dir="ltr">Greenpeace is currently in the Antarctic campaigning for an ocean sanctuary covering 1.8 million square kilometres, which would be the largest protected area on Earth.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">John Hocevar, a Greenpeace US marine biologist who piloted the submarine, said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“Our first dive in the Antarctic Ocean was amazing. I really didn't know what to expect, but we saw so much life, it was very diverse. There were a lot of species of sponges, corals, sea squirts, a lot of different kinds of sea stars and their relatives, basket stars, feather stars. It was just incredible how the whole bottom was carpeted with life. I really didn't expect it. I hope the work we're doing down here shows exactly why we need to protect this precious ecosystem.”</span></p><p></p><p>Dr Susanne Lockhart, an Antarctic biologist who visited the seafloor in a two-person submarine, said:&nbsp;“This is an early stage of the research work we are doing, but there are clear indications of a vulnerable marine ecosystem in the initial footage gathered at the seabed. We’ll be doing further exploration of the bottom of the sea to help determine specific areas that should be a priority for protection from commercial fishing in these pristine waters, as well as building a body of evidence to support proposals for protection in the Antarctic Ocean.”</p><p></p><p>Frida Bengtsson, head of Greenpeace’s Protect the Antarctic campaign, said: “Over half a million people have already backed the call for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary - a 1.8 million square kilometre safe haven for penguins and whales. The movement to create the biggest protected area on Earth is growing by the day.”</p><p></p><p>The Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise is on a three-month expedition to the Antarctic to carry out scientific research, including seafloor submarine dives and sampling for plastic pollution, to highlight the urgent need for the creation of the world’s largest protected area to safeguard fragile Antarctic ecosystems.</p><p></p><p>The proposal for the sanctuary has been submitted by the EU and backed by the German Government. It will be considered when the Antarctic Ocean Commission next convenes, in October 2018.</p><p></p><p>Key footage gathered from the submarine dives will be submitted to the Antarctic Ocean Commission for both specific, localised, protection as well as strengthening proposals for marine protection in the Antarctic.</p><p></p><p>The release comes a day after “Stranger Things” star David Harbour rose to <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/-Stranger-Things-star-David-Harbour-is-set-to-dance-with-penguins-in-the-Antarctic-after-the-actors-latest-Twitter-challenge-goes-viral/?utm_campaign=antarctic&amp;utm_source=greenpeace.org&amp;utm_medium=post&amp;utm_term=yes&amp;utm_content=press-release&amp;custom=emea">a Twitter challenge to reach 200,000 retweets in order to join Greenpeace’s Antarctic expedition</a>.</p><p></p><p>[ENDS]</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p>See footage from the submarine dives here:&nbsp;<span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;http://act.gp/2n5rC9i&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:897,&quot;3&quot;:[null,1],&quot;10&quot;:2,&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}"><a class="in-cell-link" href="http://act.gp/2n5rC9i" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2n5rC9i</a></span></p><p></p><p>See photos of the submarine dives and the expedition here:&nbsp;<span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;http://act.gp/2E2gh0W&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:897,&quot;3&quot;:[null,1],&quot;10&quot;:2,&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}"><a class="in-cell-link" href="http://act.gp/2E2gh0W" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2E2gh0W</a></span></p><p></p><p>Learn more about the campaign here: <a href="http://protecttheantarctic.org">http://protecttheantarctic.org</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Luke Massey, Antarctic Global Communications Lead, Greenpeace UK, luke.massey@greenpeace.org, +44 (0) 7973 873 155</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</span></p>Wed, 24 Jan 2018 06:33:00 Zoceansjperryc571e347-6334-4a06-b841-15eed00a5b47http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Sanchi-tanker-oil-spill-update-/'Impossible to estimate magnitude' of Sanchi oil spill - GreenpeaceHong Kong, 24 January 2017 - The Chinese State Oceanic Administration announced that oil from the sunken tanker Sanchi may now cover an area of 332km2, much larger than previously reported.<p dir="ltr">Paul Johnston, Head of Greenpeace International’s Science Unit, said:</p><p></p><p>“This is an evolving situation and accurate information about the amounts of oil spilled already and likely to be spilled in the future is not available. It remains almost impossible to estimate the magnitude of the spill and what the potential environmental impacts might subsequently be."</p><p></p><p>“The authorities must ensure there is continued oversight of the spill and that a thorough and systematic surveillance monitoring programme is put in place to assess its ecological significance.”</p><p></p><p>The Sanchi, which was <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/jan/22/china-oil-slick-from-sunken-tanker-trebles-in-size">carrying</a> 111,000 tonnes [1] of highly-toxic natural gas condensate &nbsp;from Iran, collided with the bulk freighter CF Crystal on 6 January and caught fire, subsequently <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/iran-oil-tanker-sanchi-sinks-oil-slick-fire-collision-china-freighter/">sinking</a> in the East China Sea.</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] Using the 111,000 tonnes figure revised down from 136,000 tonnes by the<a href="https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/oil-slick-off-china-coast-trebles-in-size-official-9883238"> Ministry of Transportation</a></p><p></p><p>A factsheet on the accident up to 15 January 2018 is <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/eastasia/PageFiles/299371/Sanchi%20oil%20tanker%20collision/Sanchi%20oil%20tanker%20collision%20-%20Greenpeace%20East%20Asia%20factsheet.pdf">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</p>Wed, 24 Jan 2018 04:10:00 Zoceansclimate changetoxicsjperry225f1c53-e790-4e06-8c2c-4b9007eb04d6http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/-Stranger-Things-star-David-Harbour-is-set-to-dance-with-penguins-in-the-Antarctic-after-the-actors-latest-Twitter-challenge-goes-viral/ 'Stranger Things' star to 'dance with penguins' after latest Twitter challenge goes viralLondon, 23 January 2018 - 'Stranger Things' star David Harbour is set to 'dance with penguins' in the Antarctic after the actor's latest Twitter challenge went viral yesterday.<p dir="ltr">'Stranger Things' star David Harbour tweeted his <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidKHarbour/status/955503974186020864">latest Twitter challenge at Greenpeace</a> yesterday, asking if Greenpeace would take him somewhere he could dance with penguins.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Following a series of <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2018/01/17/entertainment/david-harbour-wedding-retweets/index.html">escalating Twitter challenges</a>, the actor's challenge was set this time at 200,000 retweets. In just five hours, David reached the target. Our response: “Get your thermals.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Frida Bengtsson, speaking from on board Greenpeace’s Protect the Antarctic expedition on the Arctic Sunrise, said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">‘We&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Greenpeace/status/955408319262404608">challenged</a>. And he&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/DavidKHarbour/status/955503974186020864">delivered</a>. David Harbour, get your thermals because we are taking you to dance with penguins and help us create the biggest protected area on Earth: an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary.’</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace is in the Antarctic campaigning for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary covering 1.8 million square kilometres. The proposal has been submitted by the EU and backed by the German Government. It will be considered when the Antarctic Ocean Commission next convenes, in October 2018.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace’s Antarctic expedition will run for three months from January to early April 2018.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">For more information on the expedition, see here:&nbsp;<span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;http://act.gp/2G74Vtr&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:897,&quot;3&quot;:[null,1],&quot;10&quot;:2,&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}"><a class="in-cell-link" href="http://act.gp/2G74Vtr" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2G74Vtr</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">For images of Greenpeace’s ship the Arctic Sunrise, see:&nbsp;<span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;http://act.gp/2G980ZS&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:897,&quot;3&quot;:[null,1],&quot;10&quot;:2,&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}"><a class="in-cell-link" href="http://act.gp/2G980ZS" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2G980ZS</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Official site:&nbsp;<span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;http://act.gp/2G55bsR&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:897,&quot;3&quot;:[null,1],&quot;10&quot;:2,&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}"><a class="in-cell-link" href="http://act.gp/2G55bsR" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2G55bsR</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Frida Bengtsson is a senior oceans campaigner at Greenpeace Nordic, she is leading Greenpeace’s new Protect the Antarctic campaign.</p><p></p><p><strong>Contact:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Luke Massey, Communications, Greenpeace UK, +44 (0)7973 873 155, <a href="mailto:luke.massey@greenpeace.org">luke.massey@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</p>Tue, 23 Jan 2018 09:46:00 Zoceanslmasseyda7b02d2-1cbb-4c0e-b98d-dedaaed6dc17http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/Greenpeace-rebrands-Samsungs-UK-flagship-store-to-highlight-firms-reliance-on-fossil-fuels/Greenpeace rebrands Samsung’s UK flagship store to highlight firm’s reliance on fossil fuelsLondon, 18 January 2018 - Greenpeace UK activists rebranded Samsung’s flagship store in Central London to expose the tech giant’s overreliance on fossil fuels.<p>The Samsung Experience Store on Oxford Street, Europe's busiest shopping street, got a total makeover after Greenpeace UK activists changed the brand’s advertising, highlighting the lack of commitment from the company to move towards renewable energy.</p><p></p><p>The activists placed the message ‘We’re failing to commit to 100% renewable energy. #DoBiggerThings’ throughout the store, playing on the company's strapline. The subverted messages were visible on the shop window, the devices on display, and the spec slips.</p><p></p><p>The company used more than 16,000GW/h of energy in 2016 alone, of which only 1% was sourced from renewables. This lags far behind other global IT companies which have already committed to 100% renewables.</p><p></p><p>“The biggest smartphone manufacturer in the world still heavily relies on fossil fuels, despite proclaiming itself as one of the most innovative tech companies. Samsung's claim to ‘Do Bigger Things’ is in stark contrast to its lack of action to mitigate the effects its massive production has on the environment,” said Jude Lee, Global Senior Campaigner at Greenpeace East Asia.</p><p></p><p>Despite being only three weeks away from the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea, the first in history to set a goal of being powered by 100% renewable energy, Samsung Electronics, one of the event’s main sponsors, has still failed to commit to 100% RE.</p><p></p><p>Samsung has a large and growing carbon footprint but has set very weak goals to reduce its climate-warming emissions and recently <a href="https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-will-announce-renewable-energy-strategy-and-target">announced</a> it will publish its renewable energy strategy only by August 2018.</p><p></p><p>“Samsung's delay in publishing their new energy strategy shows their failure to recognise the urgent need to transition from coal to renewable sources of energy. As the company with the largest smartphone market share globally and one of the main suppliers of key components to other major tech brands, Samsung has a duty to take a lead in reducing negative impacts on the planet. Alternatives are already available and Samsung needs to step up its game and act now,” said Lee.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace has been campaigning on Samsung Electronics to show its leadership and commit to 100% renewable energy, following the steps of other major IT brands like Apple which have already committed to renewables. Greenpeace is calling on Samsung Electronics to urgently set a clear renewable energy goal for its own operations as well as its supply chain.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] Greenpeace has launched a global petition (available <a href="http://act.gp/2mUmAfN">here</a>) asking Samsung to commit to 100% RE.</p><p></p><p>[2] Details on Samsung’s performance on renewable energy can be found in Greenpeace USA’s latest Guide to Greener Electronics, available <a href="http://act.gp/2mSusOI">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>[3] Visual materials will appear here:</p><p></p><p>Photo: <a href="http://act.gp/2DMnLoW">http://act.gp/2DMnLoW<br /> </a>Video: <a href="http://act.gp/2DNlae4">http://act.gp/2DNlae4<br /> </a>Photo and video collection: <a href="http://act.gp/2Dq5mkM">http://act.gp/2Dq5mkM</a></p><p></p><p>&nbsp;<strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Maria Elena De Matteo, Global Communications Strategist, Greenpeace East Asia, +39-3281384774, <a href="mailto:mariaelena.dematteo@greenpeace.org">mariaelena.dematteo@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></p>Thu, 18 Jan 2018 14:06:00 ZtoxicsArin de Hoog64528c5c-c858-4ad5-b8be-9f5d8bfd54ebhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/WEF-2018-Greenpeace-brings-Justice-to-Davos/WEF 2018: Greenpeace brings Justice to DavosDavos, 18 January, 2018 - Greenpeace Switzerland activists have unveiled a 6-metre statue of Justice on the outskirts of Davos ahead of the World Economic Forum.[1] The action comes as Greenpeace International sets out the ten fundamental principles needed to cut environmental and human rights abuses by corporations in the ‘Justice for People and Planet’ report, which documents the root causes of these abuses — and how to stop them.[2]<p>Justice for People and Planet calls on governments to impose effective and binding rules on corporate behaviour, to make them accountable toward people and the planet. It shows how, rather than imposing these rules, governments have willingly or unwillingly become enablers of corporate impunity. The report’s analysis of 20 specific cases shows how corporations have exploited corporate law, tax and investment treaties, regulatory capture and a series of barriers to justice to profit at the expense of human rights and the environment.</p><p></p><p>“In Davos the global elite will discuss ‘creating a shared future in a fractured world’, but the real corporate agenda remains one of expanding corporate power and profiting at the expense of citizens and the environment. If we are to protect our fragile planet, we need justice at the heart of corporate governance,” said&nbsp;Matthias Wüthrich, Corporate Accountability Campaigner, Greenpeace Switzerland.</p><p></p><p>The report documents, among others, how differences in legal standards saw VW fined billions in the US for the dieselgate scandal, but escape unpunished in Europe [3]; how Resolute Forest Products and Energy Transfer Partners have used SLAPP suits in an attempt to silence critics [4]; how Glencore pollutes the environment and climate and uses private arbitration courts to pressurise governments [5]; &nbsp;and how Spanish ACS group became an accomplice to an environmental and social catastrophe when it joined the construction of the Renace hydroelectric power project in Guatemala.[6]</p><p></p><p>The report’s 20 cases expose corporate wrongdoing relating to climate change, deforestation, pollution, violations of Indigenous rights, repression against NGOs and environmental / human rights defenders, tax avoidance, corruption, fraudulent manipulation of the public debate and more [7]. 20 of the companies named in the report are partners or participants in the World Economic Forum. [8]</p><p></p><p>The common sense Corporate Accountability Principles that Greenpeace is asking to be adopted include ‘Holding corporations and those individuals who direct them liable for environmental and human rights violations committed domestically or abroad by companies under their control.’ and ‘Promoting a race to the top by prohibiting corporations from carrying out activities abroad which are banned in their home state for reasons of risks to environmental or human rights.’</p><p></p><p>“If corporations were held to the highest applicable standard, be that at home or abroad, it would go a long way to healing our fractured world. And if company directors risked fines or jail for the misdeeds of their subsidiaries and subcontractors corporate accountability could become a reality rather than a myth, ”<strong>&nbsp;</strong>said&nbsp;Shira Stanton, Senior Political Strategist, Greenpeace International.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace is supporting the launch with the release of the short, comedy film ‘It’s not Business, it’s personal’, produced by Don’t Panic! London, which imagines what would happen if a natural person were granted the privileges extended to corporations. [9]<br /> <br /> ENDS</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes</strong></p><p></p><p><strong>[1]</strong> The activity was supported by activities in Switzerland, Mexico and Italy and is part of the Fight Inequality Alliance’s Messages from the other mountains campaign. #fightinequality</p><p></p><p><strong>[2]</strong>&nbsp;The Executive Summary: Justice for People and Planet : Ending the age of corporate capture, collusion and impunity can be seen <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/other/2018/Justice-Report-Exec-Summary.pdf">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>The full report: Justice for People and Planet : Ending the age of corporate capture, collusion and impunity can be seen <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/other/2018/Justice-for-people-and-planet.pdf">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>[3] </strong>The&nbsp;VW case can be seen <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/other/2018/Cases/VW.pdf">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>[4]</strong>&nbsp;The Energy Transfer Partners case can be seen <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/other/2018/Cases/ETP.pdf">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>Resolute Forest Products case can be seen <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/other/2018/Cases/Resolute-Forest-Products.pdf">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>[5] </strong>The&nbsp;Glencore case can be seen <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/other/2018/Cases/Glencore.pdf">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>[6]</strong>&nbsp;The ACS case can be seen <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/other/2018/Cases/ACS-Group.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>[7]</strong> The corporations examined in the case studies are ACS Group (Grupo Cobra), The Carbon Majors (47 companies), Chevron, DowDuPont, Energy Transfer Partners, Exxon, Gabriel Resources, Glencore, Grupo Bimbo, Halcyon Agri (Sudcam), ICIG (Miteni), Keskinoğlu, Monsanto, Nestlé, Novartis (Sandoz), Resolute Forest Products, Rosatom, Schörghuber group (Ventisqueros), Total, Trafigura, and VW</p><p></p><p><strong>[8]</strong> The following corporations are named in the report and are also official partners or participants in the WEF: Chevron, Dow Chemical Company (DowDuPont), Glencore, Monsanto, Nestlé, Novartis, Total, Trafigura, Volkswagen VW, BP, Eni, LUKOIL, Shell, Suncor, ArcelorMittal, Barclays, Citi, Facebook, Google, JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co.</p><p></p><p><strong>[9]</strong> It’s not business, it’s just personal, can be seen <a href="www.greenpeace.org/justice">here</a>,&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Photo and video </strong>are available <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX3QB3Y">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Nicolas Fojtu </strong>– Visual Communication Producer</p><p></p><p>nfojtu@greenpeace.org</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts</strong></p><p></p><p>Matthias Wuethric, Corporate Accountability Project Leader</p><p></p><p>Tel: +41 797 048 409</p><p></p><p><a href="mailto:matthias.wuethrich@greenpeace.org">matthias.wuethrich@greenpeace.org</a><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>Shira Stanton, Senior Political Strategist, Greenpeace International</p><p></p><p>Tel: &nbsp;+41 (0)78 708 5837</p><p></p><p><a href="mailto:shira.stanton@greenpeace.org">shira.stanton@greenpeace.org</a>,</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Thu, 18 Jan 2018 10:21:00 Zother issuesabout usArin de Hoog369945dd-d099-4bf9-95e9-76a6b9e25dfahttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/landmark-expedition-begins-antarctic-release/Penguins pop up across the globe in march for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary, as landmark expedition beginsLondon, 15 January, 2018 – As a groundbreaking expedition begins in the Antarctic, pop-up penguins have been spotted from London to Seoul, Buenos Aires to Sydney, and New Delhi to Washington DC, marching for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary.[1]<p>The striking geometric sculptures have appeared by national landmarks across the globe, on local transport, and travelling to the Antarctic with suitcases in hand, including by the White House, Buenos Aires’ colourful Boca district, Sydney Opera House, and the Sagrada Família in Barcelona. [<a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX9X3SO">See here for images</a>.]</p><p></p><p>The penguins are part of a new Greenpeace campaign calling for the creation of the largest protected area on earth: a 1.8 million square kilometre ocean sanctuary in the Antarctic. “This sanctuary would be a safe haven for penguins, whales and seals, and put the waters off-limits to the industrial fishing vessels sucking up the tiny shrimp-like krill on which Antarctic life relies,” <strong>said Frida Bengtsson, head of Greenpeace’s new <em>Protect The Antarctic</em> campaign</strong>.</p><p></p><p>The ship’s crew will undertake pioneering scientific research in submarines, document the area’s unique wildlife which is facing pressures from climate change, overfishing and pollution, and gather evidence of the urgent need for governments to create an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary.</p><p></p><p>The expedition will see the first humans ever to visit the seafloor in the Weddell Sea, which is the subject of an EU proposal for an ocean sanctuary to be considered by the Antarctic Ocean Commission (CCAMLR) in October 2018. Antarctic scientists will conduct research to identify Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems and new species on the seabed including rare corals and sponges. This would provide further evidence for the need for comprehensive protection of the area. The crew will also undertake water sampling to identify the presence of any plastic pollution in this remote region.</p><p></p><p><strong>Dr Susanne Lockhart, a renowned Antarctic specialist with the California Academy of Sciences is joining the expedition’s dives to the seafloor: </strong></p><p></p><p>“The first steps have finally been taken by those entrusted to govern the Antarctic Ocean to protect one of the world's last pristine marine ecosystems; an ocean that connects all oceans. I'm excited to partner with Greenpeace and provide the science that will help determine areas which should be a priority for protection as countries work together to create the world's largest ocean sanctuary.”</p><p></p><p><strong>Bengtsson continued:</strong></p><p></p><p>“There are 35 of us on this ship - scientists, campaigners, submarine pilots, deck hands - but when we return in three month’s time, we want to come back with a global movement calling for governments to protect the Antarctic.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>“The bottom of our blue planet may seem far away to many of us, but what happens there is crucial to all of our futures. An Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary would not only safeguard the unique penguins, whales and seals in this incredible area, but it will ensure the ocean is healthy enough to help mitigate against the worst effects of climate change. When governments meet in October, they have the opportunity to &nbsp;create the largest protected area on Earth. Let’s make it happen.”</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Notes</span></strong></p><p></p><p>[1] The pop-up penguins have appeared in the following cities: Barcelona, Berlin, Buenos Aires, Hamburg, Johannesburg, London, New Delhi, Stockholm, Sydney and Washington DC.</p><p></p><p>For images of the penguin sculptures, see:</p><p></p><p><a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX9X3SO">http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX9X3SO</a> &nbsp;</p><p></p><p>For images of Greenpeace’s ship the Arctic Sunrise, which has just commenced its three-month Antarctic expedition, see: <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX9IE3D">http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX9IE3D</a></p><p></p><p>The penguin sculptures were made by Wolfram Kampffmeyer of German-based 3D design company Paperwolf.</p><p></p><p><strong>Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary:</strong></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace is campaigning for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary covering 1.8 million square kilometres in the Weddell Sea. The proposal has been submitted by the EU and backed by the German Government. It will be considered when CCAMLR next convenes, in October 2018.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace’s Antarctic expedition will run for three months from January to early April 2018.</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Luke Massey, Antarctic Global Communications Lead, <a href="mailto:luke.massey@greenpeace.org">luke.massey@greenpeace.org</a>, +44 (0) 7973 873 155</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a>, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p>Mon, 15 Jan 2018 07:00:00 Zoceansother issuesArin de Hoog51b27514-1c51-4a0f-b058-411c3b2186e6http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Decision-made-in-case-against-Arctic-Oil-in-Norway-Right-to-a-healthy-environment-acknowledged/Decision made in case against Arctic Oil in Norway: Right to a healthy environment acknowledgedOslo, Norway, January 4, 2018 – In the case brought against the Norwegian Government by Greenpeace Norway, Nature and Youth and the Grandparents Climate Campaign for granting new oil licenses to drill in the Arctic, the Oslo District Court has reached a decision today. [1] [2]<p>The Court found the Norwegian government not responsible for breaching the Constitution. However, the Court found that the right to a healthy environment <em>is</em> protected by the Constitution and the Government must uphold those rights. In reaction to the judgment, the head of Greenpeace Norway, Truls Gulowsen, said:</p><p></p><p>"While it's good news that the judgment acknowledges the Environmental Article in the Norwegian Constitution, it's very disappointing that it neglects Norway’s responsibility for damaging the planet’s climate.</p><p></p><p>“The demand for immediate action against climate change may not have been heard by the Norwegian government or courts, but every environment defender has heard the millions of people across the world who want Arctic protection. This decision should serve to shape the playbook which is being used everywhere by people taking their governments’ to court to protect their basic human right to a healthy environment."</p><p></p><p>Ingrid Skjoldvær, head of Nature and Youth, said:</p><p></p><p>“We have shown that the Norwegian Constitution gives future generations the right to a safe and healthy environment. We see this as an important step for stronger protection of the environment, that can serve as inspiration for youth all around the world.”</p><p></p><p>More than half a million people have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.savethearctic.org/en/peoplevsarcticoil/" target="_blank">submitted their names</a> supporting the court case against Arctic oil drilling, and have asked the Norwegian government to withdraw the new oil licenses in the Arctic.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] More about the case can be read <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Worlds-eyes-on-Norway-as-historic-climate-trial-begins/" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[2] The judgement can be found <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/Global/norway/Arktis/bilder/2017/Dom%20Klimars%C3%B8ksma%CC%8Alet.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>Media briefings and background on the climate lawsuit can be read <a href="http://act.gp/2jkhjix" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>Photos and clip reel can be seen <a href="http://act.gp/2hviZp6" target="_blank">here</a>.<strong><br /></strong></p><p></p><p><br /> <strong>Contacts</strong><br /> <br /> Poul Bonke Justesen, press officer, Greenpeace Nordic. Mobile: +45 2629 4938</p><p></p><p>Email: poul.bonke.justesen@greenpeace.org<br /> <br /> Truls Gulowsen, head of Greenpeace Norway. Mobile: +47 90107904</p>Thu, 04 Jan 2018 16:38:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hoog01cc818d-db54-4dd1-8f86-b39af6ba8b07http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/MAKE-SMTHNG-Week-sparks-a-sustainable-maker-movement/MAKE SMTHNG Week sparks a sustainable maker movementRome, 14 Dec, 2017 - To fight overconsumption and wasteful shopping during the holiday season, thousands of makers around the world have joined Greenpeace and its partners Fashion Revolution and Shareable for the MAKE SMTHNG week of action.<p dir="ltr">MAKE SMTHNG Week lasted from Dec 2-10 and saw more than 175 events in 32 countries on six continents, with an estimate of over 10,000 people attending workshops and talks on repairing, sharing, zero waste, veganism, upcycling and DIY techniques that breathe new life into already owned products.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Hundreds of makers, chefs, artists, creatives and designers volunteered to teach people new and useful skills: to create new things out of unworn garments, scraps and other waste products like plastic, cloth and paper; repair broken technology and bikes; and simple DIY projects to trigger the first steps into creativity and making. All events followed the principle of #buynothing and were free of charge, with workshops givers also donating their time as volunteers.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Many events also had “sharing corners” for books and children toys and clothes swapping parties. To co-create events, Greenpeace collaborated with initiatives and public spaces such as repair and sewing cafes, community and coworking spaces, schools, universities and city markets.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“Simple plastic containers were made into art, delicious dinners cooked out of food that would have gone to waste; stained clothes were upcycled into unique fashion. Whether in Rome, London, Berlin, Nairobi, Miami, Auckland or Mexico City: the amazing makers on our events demonstrated hands-on, that with some creativity, knowledge and skills, you can truly make this world your own; rather than just buying into a prefabricated and wasteful reality only others profit from!”, said Chiara Campione, Project Lead of MAKE SMTHNG week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Youtubers, bloggers and influencers as well as hundreds of dedicated volunteers joined the week online and tagged their made products and workshops with the campaign hashtag #makesmthng. Around this hashtag on social media, an active and international community of makers continues to share experiences in upcycling, repairing, sharing, swapping and making, as well as a zero waste and plastic-free life in the areas of fashion, food, technology, household decoration and toys.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“MAKE SMTHNG week was amazing. It’s genuinely moving to hear so many stories of people who took the time to start making, or re-engaged with it with a revamped sense of purpose. I, for one, realised that I don’t make anywhere near as much as I did, and I never want it to slip away from my daily life ever again,” said Orsola De Castro, upcycling designer and founder of Fashion Revolution. “</span><span>Thank you Greenpeace for igniting this, for asking Fashion Revolution to join up and help spread such a positive, joyous and effective message.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>"Since the very beginning, Shareable has been a huge proponent of people sharing skills and upcycling as a way to build community and reduce waste and over-consumption. MAKE SMTHNG Week was a great opportunity to connect makers all over the world and partner with organizations that are doing powerful work for the environment," said Shareable's strategic partnerships director Tom Llewellyn.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The organisers encourage everyone to get inspired by other makers and join the community on social media channels, and use the event calendar to show what they do: </span></p><p></p><p>“Consumerism in the holiday shopping season reaches a dangerous peak. Instead of giving into the christmas shopping craze, makers and participants to MAKE SMTHNG WEEK showed that there are infinite creative ways to make someone happy without buying something new - so keep on making!,” concluded Chiara Campione, project lead of MAKE SMTHNG Week.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>On the campaign partners</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>For decades, Greenpeace has been challenging big corporations and fighting for stricter regulations towards the elimination of all hazardous chemicals from production. Besides working on pollution, Greenpeace is now also challenging the current make-take-waste business model by directly addressing consumerism. As the world population is producing and consuming too much - from fashion and tech, to food, single-use plastic, toys and cars, Greenpeace is advocating for all of us to quit this wasteful throw-away lifestyle and consider making more of existing resources. </span></p><p></p><p>Fashion Revolution has been fighting for transparency in the fashion supply chain and advocating for better working conditions for textile workers. In order to fight overconsumption and textile waste, the international campaign also promotes a slower, more careful treatment of our clothes that include repair and mending, vintage, upcycling, DIY and clothes swapping.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Shareable is a nonprofit media outlet and action network that empowers people to share for a more resilient, equitable, and joyful world. Shareable has been a huge proponent of people sharing skills and upcycling as a way to build community and reduce waste and over-consumption.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes to editors:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[1] Photos and videos can be accessed </span><span><a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXC8C8C" target="_blank">here</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[2] Additional resources can be found at:</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Website: </span><a href="http://www.makesmthng.org" target="_blank"><span>www.makesmthng.org</span></a><span> </span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/17n1v3KqIWYnrBVVdZht2JtSnbG50GAD9ZGh3OhammqE/edit" target="_blank"><span>Blogpost: Why making can help us consume less </span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/makesmthng/" target="_blank"><span>Instagram Account @makesmthng</span></a><span> </span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="http://fashionrevolution.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/FashRev_Haulternatives_2017_.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Fashion Revolution Haulternative</span></a><span> </span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span><a href="https://www.shareable.net/how-to-share" target="_blank">How to share - Resources on Shareable</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Lu Yen Roloff, Comms Lead, Germany, lroloff@greenpeace.org, +49 151 10028267</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, </span><a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org"><span>pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</span></a><span>, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</span></p>Thu, 14 Dec 2017 07:45:00 Ztoxicsshchung9c23b643-8acb-44a2-8024-2563078e2af2http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Worlds-first-human-rights-investigation-into-corporate-responsibility-for-climate-change-intensifies/World’s first human rights investigation into corporate responsibility for climate change intensifiesManila, 8 December 2017 - The world’s first ever national inquiry into the responsibility of the fossil fuel industry for the human rights impacts resulting from climate change hits and important milestone in the Philippines on 11 December - one day after Human Rights Day (10 December). Companies, including ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Suncor and Repsol, are being asked to explain their role in making climate change worse.<p dir="ltr">The investigating body, the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines, sent Notices in October requesting the companies to attend the 11 December meeting to discuss and agree on how the investigation will be conducted, as well as evidence submission and witnesses (1). The investigation will intensify in 2018 and has the potential to shift global understanding of corporate responsibility for climate change.</p><p></p><p>“Many homes were destroyed during typhoon Yolanda and people died - including some I knew,” said Isagani Serrano, president of the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM), an organisation that provides support in the aftermath of disasters and one of the petitioners. “We hope CEOs of these companies look deep within their hearts and see how their profit harms people and the planet.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Filipino typhoon survivors, other communities suffering the impacts of climate change, and civil society organisations, including Greenpeace Southeast Asia (Philippines), petitioned the Commission for the investigation in 2015 (2), two years after super-typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) claimed the lives of more than 6,300 people and affected millions of others who have yet to recover (3).</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“International Human Rights Day should remind these companies why it’s important that they participate in the national inquiry. Extreme weather fuelled by climate change is making life worse for people on the frontlines of climate change,” said Yeb Saño, Executive Director of Greenpeace Southeast Asia, who is also a petitioner in the investigation.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“Their basic rights to food, water, shelter, health, and even life are under threat. People have rights, states have duties, and companies have responsibilities to respect these rights. No oil, gas, or coal company has a right to pollute the climate, and those that undermine, threaten, and violate human rights must be held accountable.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“The national inquiry in the Philippines is an opportunity to set the record straight on climate change and make sure these companies are as committed as society needs them to be to phasing out fossil fuels and ensuring that our future is powered by 100% renewable energy,” said </span><span>Saño.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The Philippines national inquiry is one of a wave of people-powered legal actions taking place around the world. Greenpeace Nordic and Nature and Youth in Norway, young people in the US, senior women in Switzerland, a Peruvian farmer in Germany, a law student in New Zealand, and many others, are taking legal action to seek protection from climate change. </span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The day before the Manila meeting is a very important day for all of humanity. 10 December is International Human Rights Day and the start of the one-year lead up to the 70th anniversary of the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes:</strong><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>[1] </span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>The Climate Change and Human Rights Petition</span></a><span> - see section V. Commission on Human Rights’ Notice for companies to attend preliminary conference of parties.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[2] &nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>Petition Requesting for Investigation of the Responsibility of the Carbon Majors for Human Rights Violations or Threats of Violations Resulting from the Impacts of Climate Change</span></a><span>. 9 May 2016.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[3] The Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. 2015. </span><a href="http://ndrrmc.gov.ph/attachments/article/1329/FINAL_REPORT_re_Effects_of_Typhoon_YOLANDA_%28HAIYAN%29_06-09NOV2013.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Final Report re Effects of Typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan). </span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[4] Sections 17-18, Article 13 of the Philippine Constitution. For further details see </span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>Petitioners´ Consolidated Reply</span></a><span> </span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[5] Corporate responses and comments on the petition </span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>here</span></a><span>. </span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Images are available here: <a title="http://act.gp/2yChv3H" href="http://act.gp/2yChv3H" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2yChv3H</a></span><a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXXEQGR" target="_blank"><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><strong><br class="kix-line-break" /></strong></a><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Desiree Llanos Dee, Climate Justice Campaigner, Greenpeace Southeast Asia-Philippines,</span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>email: </span><a href="mailto:desiree.llanosdee@greenpeace.org"><span>desiree.llanosdee@greenpeace.org</span></a><span>; +639985959732</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>JP Agcaoili, Communications and Digital Manager, Greenpeace Southeast Asia-Philippines, email: </span><a href="mailto:jp.agcaoili@greenpeace.org"><span>jp.agcaoili@greenpeace.org</span></a><span>; tel. +639498891334</span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, </span><a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org"><span>pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</span></a><span>; phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</span>&nbsp;</p>Fri, 08 Dec 2017 02:00:00 Zclimate changeshchung5a15db6c-6d6a-4b2b-840d-4dd0662b0062http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Historic-agreement-reached-to-protect-the-Arctic/Historic agreement reached to protect the ArcticCopenhagen, 1 December 2017 - An international agreement to protect the Central Arctic Ocean against all commercial fishing was reached in Washington DC last night. The United States, Canada, Norway, Russia, The Kingdom of Denmark, Iceland, Japan, South Korea, China and the European Union signed a 16 year moratorium on commercial fishing in international waters covering an area of 2.8 million square kilometers or roughly the size of the Mediterranean Sea.<p></p><p dir="ltr">Jon Burgwald, political advisor, Greenpeace Nordic, said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“This is a historic win for Arctic protection and a day for celebration. Thanks to the millions of voices from all around the world who supported the <a href="https://www.savethearctic.org/">Save the Arctic campaign</a>, this unique area at the top of the world will be safe from destructive fisheries. We applaud the countries behind this agreement and expect them to make use of the next 16 years to agree on permanent protection for the Central Arctic Ocean - from commercial fisheries as well as from other extractive industries”.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The <a title="https://oceanconservancy.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Chairmans-Statement-from-Washington-Meeting-2017.pdf" href="https://oceanconservancy.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Chairmans-Statement-from-Washington-Meeting-2017.pdf" target="_blank">legally binding agreement</a> will automatically be extended every five years, unless a country objects or a science-based fisheries management plan is put in place. It is vital that all countries involved now ratify the agreement and commit to long term protection for the vulnerable ocean on top of the world.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The Central Arctic Ocean has experienced increased pressure from the fishing industry, as its protective shield of sea ice is melting due to climate change. Forty percent of this historically ice-covered area has experienced ice-free summers in recent years.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Whilst giant steps have now been taken to protect the Central Arctic Ocean, it is important that these countries also take a progressive role in the United Nations negotiations on high seas protection. The UN process has the potential to safeguard all oceans in the high seas, and these countries must step up their game and support a global and ambitious agreement,” Jon Burgwald said.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The Arctic announcement comes on the same day that protection also comes into force in the Antarctic for the Ross Sea, where a Marine Protected Area covering 1.5 million square kilometers is confirmed today.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Jon Burgwald, political advisor, Greenpeace Nordic, +45 40 81 88 98, <a href="mailto:jburgwal@greenpeace.org">jburgwal@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Christina Koll, communications officer, Greenpeace Nordic, +45 28209021, <a href="mailto:ckoll@greenpeace.org">ckoll@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></p>Fri, 01 Dec 2017 09:30:00 Zoceansclimate changeawillsondf80040e-3c28-4b84-b571-f9c127710258http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Indonesias-forests-still-under-threat-from-palm-oil-industry-new-research-shows-/Indonesia’s forests still under threat from palm oil industry, new research shows Nusa Dua, Bali, 27 November 2017 – As the industry gathers in Bali for the annual Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil conference, a new report by Greenpeace International [1] reveals that suppliers to the world’s biggest consumer brands still cannot guarantee their palm oil is free from forest destruction. None of the companies could prove there was no deforestation in their palm oil supply chain.<p>The palm oil industry is a leading cause of deforestation in Indonesia [2]. Three years after the world’s biggest palm oil traders adopted ‘no deforestation’ policies, Greenpeace International examined 11 traders to see how much progress they had made. Not only were they unable to prove their suppliers were not destroying rainforests, but most could not say when their supply chain would be deforestation-free.<br /><br />“The palm oil industry is still broken and our report shows the traders don’t have a plan to fix it. Instead of taking their commitments seriously, most traders have a ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy that pretends everything is under control while Indonesia’s forests go up in smoke,” said Bagus Kusuma, forest campaigner with Greenpeace Southeast Asia.<br /><br />These findings will be met with alarm by household brands that use palm oil. Most brands, including the 400 companies in the Consumer Goods Forum, have committed to clean up their palm oil supply by 2020. Only two of the traders Greenpeace International assessed were planning to meet that deadline. The vast majority had no deadlines at all, leaving their customers with no way to stop dirty palm oil entering their products.<br /><br />“This is a wake up call for brands such as PepsiCo, Unilever, Procter &amp; Gamble and Mondelez, which promised their customers they’d cut their ties with forest destruction. Consumer brands cannot rely upon palm oil traders to deliver them deforestation-free palm oil. Instead, brands need to step up and make traders cut off growers that won't change their dirty practices.”<br /><br />The situation is critical for Indonesia’s forests. The country has lost 31 million hectares of forest – an area almost the size of Germany – since 1990 [3]. Deforestation is also a major threat to the endangered animals who live there, such as orangutans. This year, a study published on Borneo and Sumatra orangutans showed that the population has significantly declined, with destruction of their habitat a leading cause of the crisis. [4]<br /><br />Greenpeace is calling on palm oil traders and brands to keep their promises and stop buying from companies still clearing rainforests.</p><p></p><p>Key findings from the assessment:</p><p></p><ul><p></p><li>None of the companies surveyed were able to say with any certainty that there is no deforestation in their palm oil supply chain.</li><p></p><li>Although 10 of the 11 traders had a ‘no deforestation’ policy, only two of them had set an implementation deadline. The others were unable to say by when they will clean up their palm oil supply.</li><p></p><li>Most traders did not have maps of their suppliers’ plantations, making it impossible to find out whether they were clearing forests or not.</li><p></p></ul><p></p><p><strong>Notes:</strong><br /><br />[1] Greenpeace International’s ‘Still Cooking the Climate’ report, available&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/stillcooking/" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/stillcooking/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1511846011576000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEmT7V4ZWy9-CyNLOX7xszxTHNHgw">here</a>.<br /><br />[2] Drivers of Deforestation in Indonesia, Inside and Outside Concessions Areas analysis by World Resources institute available&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wri.org/blog/2017/07/drivers-deforestation-indonesia-inside-and-outside-concessions-areas" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://www.wri.org/blog/2017/07/drivers-deforestation-indonesia-inside-and-outside-concessions-areas&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1511846011576000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHAlzhHzK6Pb9QlSdyk3c995rWGnA">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>[3] Mapping analysis from Greenpeace International’s Under Fire report, available&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/publications/Campaign-reports/Forests-Reports/Under-Fire/" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/publications/Campaign-reports/Forests-Reports/Under-Fire/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1511846011576000&amp;usg=AFQjCNF4QBrU_jMzavwn9CyBKKNjTGvR1w">here</a><br /><br />[4] a)&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/Press-Centre/Press-Releases/All-deforestation-in-orangutan-habitat-must-be-stopped-immediately/" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/Press-Centre/Press-Releases/All-deforestation-in-orangutan-habitat-must-be-stopped-immediately/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1511846011576000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHrjvDSJoYTSxx5aOqnLpumDlOKew">Borneo orangutans in decline, official survey shows</a>; b)&nbsp;‘<a href="http://forina.or.id/orangutan-population-and-habitat-viability-assessment-2016/" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://forina.or.id/orangutan-population-and-habitat-viability-assessment-2016/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1511846011576000&amp;usg=AFQjCNExJdkiwi36K6bMUWRQo7_4eYsN5Q">Kondisi Terkini Populasi dan Habitat Orangutan’</a>&nbsp;(‘Current Condition of Orangutan Population and Habitat’) -- Media release from Environment and Forestry Ministry, 22 August 2017<br /><br /><strong>Media contacts:</strong><br /><br />Sol Gosetti, Media Coordinator (in Indonesia),&nbsp;Greenpeace Southeast Asia,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sol.gosetti@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">sol.gosetti@greenpeace.org</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;phone: +4781388632711</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a>, phone:&nbsp;<a href="tel:+31%2020%20718%202470" target="_blank">+31 (0) 20 718 2470</a>&nbsp;(available 24 hours)</p>Mon, 27 Nov 2017 05:19:00 Zforestsjperry8e828ce7-ac5f-4f8b-8e48-74cab4efd872http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Black-Friday-Greenpeace-invites-public-to-MAKE-SMTHNG-and-buy-nothing/Black Friday: Greenpeace invites public to MAKE SMTHNG and buy nothingRome, 23 November 2017 - On the eve of Black Friday and the global wave of holiday shopping, Greenpeace is launching MAKE SMTHNG Week by asking everyone everywhere to create instead of consume as a way of taking a stand against hyper-consumerism.[1]<p dir="ltr">MAKE SMTHNG Week is an international makers festival that will teach people how to repair, upcycle, share, DIY and reuse via 85 events that will take place from December 2 - 10 across 5 continents. Greenpeace, its partners <a href="http://fashionrevolution.org/" target="_blank">Fashion Revolution</a>, <a href="https://www.shareable.net/" target="_blank">Shareable</a> and hundreds of makers from around the world, invite people to MAKE SMTHNG and buy nothing.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace hosted events will take place in Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Nairobi, London, Madrid, Moscow, Athens, Rome, Milano, Taipei and Buenos Aires, and many other places around the world.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“Black Friday has become one of the major peaks of consumerism. This shopping binge also generates greater volumes of waste than ever. This dangerous trend is harming our planet. We buy without thinking for a minute, but the waste we create will sometimes last for centuries,” said Chiara Campione, the global project leader of MAKE SMTHNG Week.[2]</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“</span><span>We have been tricked into thinking happiness comes from what we buy, when we know that true happiness comes from what we can create. Making fantastic creations out of things that we already own is much more fun, creative and social than buying stuff. </span><span>Come join us, create your own events and make something!” said Campione.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>MAKE SMTHNG Week, via its events, website and social media, will showcase the international movement of makers that already practice upcycling, repairing, sharing, swapping and making, as well as a zero waste and plastic-free life in the areas of fashion, food, technology, household decoration and toys. Every MAKE SMTHNG event will be co-created with diverse local partners - makers, artists, chefs, fashion and product designers, upcyclers, creatives, models, youtubers and bloggers, zero waste activists, maker spaces and hundreds of dedicated volunteers.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“It is incredibly exciting to join forces with Greenpeace for MAKE SMTHNG Week,” said Orsola de Castro, the upcycling designer and founder of Fashion Revolution. “Reintroducing creativity, crafts and emotions in our relationship with clothes is a brilliant way to take action. We are producing over 100 billion garments per year, and wearing just a fraction of that. How much more stuff do we need? Time to care for the things we already own.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“We are participating in MAKE SMTHNG Week to uplift the maker movement, which is not only fun and engaging, but plays an important role in developing new, sustainable ways of production and consumption,” says Tom Llewyn, Director of Strategic Partnerships from US-based nonprofit media and action network Shareable.&nbsp; &nbsp;</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>During MAKE SMTHNG Week, the use of recycled materials is encouraged wherever possible. Workshops and talks are designed to teach easily applicable skills and share first-hand experiences and knowledge of makers with the public. The only rule all events share is #BuyNothing. MAKE SMTHNG events are noncommercial and don’t sell any products.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>On the campaign</strong></p><p></p><p>For decades, Greenpeace has been challenging big corporations and fighting for stricter regulations towards the elimination of all hazardous chemicals from production. Besides working on pollution, Greenpeace is now also challenging the current make-take-waste business model by directly addressing consumerism. As the world population is producing and consuming too much - from fashion and tech, to food, single-use plastic, toys and cars, Greenpeace is advocating for all of us to quit this wasteful throw-away lifestyle and consider making more of existing resources.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes to editors:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[1] </span><a href="http://www.makesmthng.org" target="_blank"><span>www.makesmthng.org</span></a><span> and </span><span><a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/code/2017/Detox/StyleGuide/MAKE_SMTHNG_how_to_get_involved.pdf" target="_blank">Toolkit: How to get involved in MAKE SMTHNG Week</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[2] Refer to </span><span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2016/Black-Friday-Greenpeace-calls-timeout-for-fast-fashion/" target="_blank">Greenpeace 2016 report “Timeout for Fast Fashion”</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[3] </span><span><a href="https://www.makesmthng.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/20171121_MSW_PressKit_final.pdf" target="_blank">MAKE SMTHNG - Press Kit</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[4] Photos and videos can be accessed </span><span><a href="http://act.gp/2i1W70x" target="_blank">here</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[5] Additional resources can be found at:</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/makesmthng/" target="_blank"><span>Instagram Account @makesmthng</span></a><span> </span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/makesmthng/" target="_blank"><span>Facebook Page </span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.shareable.net/blog/this-holiday-season-join-the-maker-movement-during-%E2%80%98make-smthng-week%E2%80%99" target="_blank"><span>Announcement of Shareable </span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.shareable.net/how-to-share" target="_blank"><span>How to share - Resources on Shareable</span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="http://fashionrevolution.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/FashRev_Haulternatives_2017_.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Fashion Revolution Haulternative</span></a><span> </span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/17n1v3KqIWYnrBVVdZht2JtSnbG50GAD9ZGh3OhammqE/edit" target="_blank">Blogpost: Why making can help us consume less</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Lu Yen Roloff, Comms Lead, Germany, lroloff@greenpeace.org, +49 151 10028267</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, </span><a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org"><span>pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</span></a><span>, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</span></p>Thu, 23 Nov 2017 08:00:00 Ztoxicsshchungaf0d5b92-1636-4bba-9569-9238da1afa3chttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/The-People-vs-Arctic-Oil-Historic-climate-trial-ends/The People vs Arctic Oil: Historic climate trial endsOslo, Norway 22 November, 2017 – Today is the last day in court where three environmental organisations have taken on the Norwegian government for opening up new areas in the Arctic to oil drilling. The plaintiffs have been arguing that drilling for new oil violates the Norwegian Constitution and contravenes the Paris Agreement. Winning the case could set a precedent for future climate cases around the world. The verdict is expected in 4 to 12 weeks.<p>More than half a million people have <a href="https://www.savethearctic.org/en/peoplevsarcticoil/" target="_blank">submitted their names as evidence</a> of the global opposition against Arctic oil drilling. They are asking the Norwegian government to withdraw the new oil licenses in the Arctic. In a crowdsourcing drive to contribute to legal costs, so far 2500 Norwegians have donated funds covering close to half of the legal costs for the plaintiffs.</p><p></p><p><strong>Truls Gulowsen, Head of Greenpeace Norway said:</strong></p><p></p><p>“The Norwegian Constitution gives the right to a healthy environment. Winning this case -- having new oil licenses in the Arctic ruled invalid -- would keep millions of oil barrels in the ground. During the hearing, I believe we have made it clear that opening up new oil fields will be in violation of both the Norwegian constitution and the Paris Agreement. We have also shown that Norway, in fact, risks losing billions by investing in these oil fields.”</p><p></p><p>During the trial, three environmental organisations: <strong>Greenpeace</strong>, <strong>Nature and Youth </strong>and <strong>Grandparents Climate Campaign,</strong> have argued that the Norwegian government has violated the right to a healthy and safe environment for future generations, as outlined in the Norwegian Constitution §112. This is the first time this right has been used in the court of law. Around the world, over 90 countries have a constitutionally protected right to a healthy environment, and the world is now waiting to see if the verdict can inspire more people to make their governments responsible to their citizens.</p><p></p><p><strong>Ingrid Skjoldvær, Head of Nature and Youth, added:</strong></p><p></p><p><em>"If we lose, the Norwegian state will continue to drill for oil in the Arctic. This will lead to more climate change and an uncertain future for young people today, and those who come after us. Our hope is that the court will both cancel the oil licenses awarded in the 23rd licensing round and ensure that the Norwegian government start to assess the climate change consequences of distributing new oil licenses."</em></p><p></p><p>During the first week of the climate trial in Oslo, the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, the Norwegian Oil Fund and the Norwegian Central bank (Norges Bank) asked the Government for permission to divest more than 35 billion USD from oil and gas to <em>“</em><a href="https://www.nbim.no/en/transparency/news-list/2017/norges-bank-recommends-the-removal-of-oil-stocks-from-the-benchmark-index-of-the-government-pension-fund-global-gpfg/"><em>make the government’s wealth less vulnerable”.</em></a></p><p></p><p>The 13 oil companies that have new license blocks in the Barents Sea, and would be affected by the verdict, are: Statoil (Norway), Capricorn, Tullow and Centrica (UK), Chevron and ConocoPhillips (USA), DEA (Germany), Aker BP (Norway), Idemitsu (Japan), Lukoil (Russia), Lundin Petroleum (Sweden), OMV (Austria), PGNiG (Norway/Poland).</p><p></p><p><span>--</span>&nbsp;ENDS&nbsp;<span>--</span></p><p></p><p>Photos and video clipreels:<strong>&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://act.gp/2hviZp6" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2hviZp6</a>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p><strong>Truls Gulowsen</strong>, spokesperson, Greenpeace Norway, &nbsp;+47 901 07 904,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:truls.gulowsen@greenpeace.org">truls.gulowsen@greenpeace.org<br /></a></p><p></p><p><strong>Ingrid Skjoldvær</strong>&nbsp;spokesperson, Nature and Youth + 47 977 02 181,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ingridsk@nu.no">ingridsk@nu.no</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Steinar Høiback</strong>, spokesperson, Grandparents Climate Campaign, +47 911 74 848</p><p></p><p><strong>Poul Bonke Justesen</strong>, press officer Greenpeace Nordic, +45 2629 4938,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:poul.bonke.justesen@greenpeace.org">poul.bonke.justesen@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Notes to Editor:</strong></p><p></p><p>Media briefings and background on the climate lawsuit: <a href="http://act.gp/2jkhjix" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2jkhjix</a></p><p></p><p>Legal writ submitted to Oslo District Court:&nbsp;<a href="http://act.gp/2hc0EJQ" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2hc0EJQ<br /> </a>Nature and Youth is a youth organisation with branches across Norway. They are connected to Young Friends of the Earth Europe. Nature and Youth is a plaintiff in this case.&nbsp;</p>Wed, 22 Nov 2017 13:37:00 Zclimate changeSune Scheller1e438167-db49-4d15-bd2f-dacdfe36866ahttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Urgent-action-needed-to-solve-West-African-food-security-threat/Urgent action needed to solve West African food security threatAmsterdam, 21 November 2017 - Vessels arrested for illegally fishing in West African waters are still carrying on with business as usual, said a Greenpeace Africa report released today on World Fisheries Day. The report, “The Cost of Ocean Destruction”, details how West African fishermen and communities continue to suffer from the consequences of overfishing and illegal fishing in this region and it provides specific recommendations for Governments on how to solve the crisis. [1]<p dir="ltr">Greenpeace is calling upon West African governments as well as nations fishing in, or importing seafood from the region, to stand together to protect millions of Africans against the unceasing onslaught of industrial fishing fleets. [2]&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace is also demanding that authorities provide follow-up information on fishing vessels and crews that were arrested during a joint patrol by Greenpeace and African fisheries inspectors last spring. </span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>Pavel Klinckhamers, project leader in Greenpeace Netherlands, said:</span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“The current situation in West Africa is a result of decades of overfishing and inaction, but it is also a result of commitments from West African governments and foreign fishing nations, like China, South Korea and the EU, that were simply never translated into reality. Coastal communities are the ones paying the price and they cannot wait any longer. African states and foreign fishing nations in the region have to change course and put in place the policies that these communities need in order to survive.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>In only twenty days, Greenpeace and fisheries inspectors from Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone and Senegal came across 17 vessels contravening applicable rules, while 11 of these vessels were arrested for infractions which included involvement in illegal transshipment, fishing in breach of their license conditions, using illegal nets and shark finning. However, only 6 months later, all 17 vessels are still licensed to fish in West African waters, and in most cases, local authorities are not responding to requests from Greenpeace to clarify what legal steps were taken after the arrests. Chinese authorities have ordered provincial authorities to punish the captains of some of the Chinese vessels involved in infringements, while specific subsidies to their operations have also been cancelled. The general lack of information on each case is symptomatic of the lack of transparency and accountability of governments when it comes to fisheries policies. &nbsp;</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“West African countries keep signing new and opaque fishing agreements with foreign countries without putting in place the means to monitor their activities and sufficiently take the interests of local small-scale fishermen into account. This kind of practice has disastrous consequences for the marine environment, for local fishermen and hence for African communities as well,” Pavel Klinckhamers said.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>One of the main fishing players in the region, China, is currently conducting a revision of its Provisions for the Administration of Distant Water Fishery. [3] The review will include new sanctions for IUU fishing, however It is still crucial to ensure transparency, effective implementation, and the strengthening and effective enforcement of punishment measures by coastal West African countries, when vessels break the law. Also, a number of new fisheries agreements are currently in the making. Last month </span><a href="http://sierraexpressmedia.com/?p=82783" target="_blank"><span>China signed long term fisheries agreements with Sierra Leone </span></a><span>and </span><a href="http://szb.farmer.com.cn/yyb/html/2017-11/06/nw.D110000yyb_20171106_4-01.htm?div=1" target="_blank"><span>Mauritania</span></a><span>, and the EU is working on a fisheries agreement with Guinea Bissau, since the current protocol will expire later this month. [4] According to unconfirmed information, Senegal and Russia are also holding conversations around reintroducing Russia’s industrial fishing fleet, that was kicked out of Senegal back in 2012.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“This is not a quick fix, and we need everyone involved in West African fisheries to cooperate. For African states in particular, they need to manage shared resources jointly and ensure priority is given to the labor intensive, small-scale sector. This sector which directly employs one million people and generates €3 billion annually. At the same time, we need foreign fishing nations to ensure their fleets do not undermine the sustainability of fisheries in the countries they operate in,“ Ibrahima Cisse, senior oceans campaign manager in Greenpeace Africa, said.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>For more than 15 years, Greenpeace and other NGOs have warned against overexploitation of fish stocks in West African waters and its serious impacts on livelihoods, food security and employment for millions of people in this region. Also, we have outlined how substantial progress can be made through strong cooperation and harmonization of West African fisheries policies and legislation. In fact, regional cooperation has been at the core of an already established mandate for West African countries of the Subregional Fisheries Commission, SRFC, since 1985. [5] Still, very little has been done in reality to turn the tides for West African waters, and the situation out at sea in West Africa and the consequences on land, are alarming.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>-- ENDS --</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Photos and video footage</span><span> </span><span><a href="http://act.gp/2miRN9f" target="_blank">available here</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Pavel Klinckhamers, project leader, Greenpeace Netherlands, </span><a href="mailto:pklinckh@greenpeace.org"><span>pklinckh@greenpeace.org</span></a><span>, +31 629001153</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>International media enquiries: Christina Koll, communications coordinator, Greenpeace Nordic, </span><a href="mailto:ckoll@greenpeace.org"><span>ckoll@greenpeace.org</span></a><span> , +45 28109021</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>African media enquiries: Bakary Coulibaly, communications officer, Greenpeace Africa, Senegal office, </span><a href="mailto:bkouliba@greenpeace.org"><span>bkouliba@greenpeace.org</span></a><span> , +221 773336265</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Chinese media enquiries: Tengfei Xu, communications officer, Greenpeace East Asia Beijing Office, </span><a href="mailto:xu.tengfei@greenpeace.org"><span>xu.tengfei@greenpeace.org</span></a><span> , +86 186-0127-7872</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes to Editor:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[1] &nbsp;The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has recently raised concerns regarding </span><a href="http://www.fao.org/3/a-i5555e.pdf" target="_blank"><span>the repercussions of stock depletion due to overfishing on food security and the economy of West Africa</span></a><span>. Around </span><a href="https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/legacy.seaaroundus/researcher/dpauly/PDF/2015/Articles+in+Refereed+Journals/Belhabib+et+al+-+2015+-+Feeding+the+poor.pdf" target="_blank"><span>seven million </span></a><span>people rely on fish for income, while many millions more depend on fish as a source of animal protein. Around </span><a href="https://www.odi.org/publications/10459-western-africas-missing-fish-impacts-illegal-unreported-and-unregulated-fishing-and-under-reporting" target="_blank"><span>300,000 jobs </span></a><span>in the artisanal sectors have been lost due to lack of policies that protect both fisheries and livelihoods.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[2] From 24 February -l 7 May, The</span><span> Esperanza</span><span>, was on an expedition in West Africa to document the threat from overfishing to the marine environment and food security for millions of Africans. Full details of ship tour finding and Greenpeace’s recommendations can be found in the report </span><span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/africa/en/Press-Centre-Hub/Publications/The-Cost-of-Ocean-Destruction/" target="_blank">“The Cost of Ocean Destruction”.</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[3] China’s Provisions for the Administration of Distant Water Fishery: </span><span><a href="http://www.lawinfochina.com/display.aspx?lib=law&amp;id=4527&amp;CGid=" target="_blank">http://www.lawinfochina.com/display.aspx?lib=law&amp;id=4527&amp;CGid=</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[4] EU Fisheries Partnership Agreements: </span><span><a href="https://ec.europa.eu/fisheries/cfp/international/agreements/guinea_bissau_en" target="_blank">https://ec.europa.eu/fisheries/cfp/international/agreements/guinea_bissau_en</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[5] Mandate of the SRFC: </span><span><a href="http://www.spcsrp.org/fr/content/pr%C3%A9sentation#mandat" target="_blank">http://www.spcsrp.org/fr/content/pr%C3%A9sentation#mandat</a></span></p>Tue, 21 Nov 2017 07:58:00 Zoceansshchung7c0bbc68-5a53-426a-afc1-7adfaab7fb24http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Strong-leadership-must-emerge-to-drive-Pacific-COP-climate-ambition-forward---Greenpeace/Strong leadership must emerge to drive Pacific COP climate ambition forward - GreenpeaceBonn, 17 November 2017 – Greenpeace demanded climate leadership to emerge from the Pacific COP, calling on leaders to listen to the need for urgency and transform their energy and land-use systems.<p></p><p dir="ltr">The Trump administration failed to stop the global climate talks from moving forward, despite its &nbsp;announcement to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, but the world is still in urgent need of action.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>The head of Greenpeace’s political delegation Jens Mattias Clausen said:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Leaders must now go home and do the right thing, prove that they have listened to the voices of the Pacific, with all their hurt and hope, and understand the urgency of our time. Talk is not good enough and we still lack the action we need.</p><p></p><p>“We call on France, Germany, China and others to step up and display the leadership they claim to stake. Clinging to coal or nuclear power and parading as climate champions while failing to accelerate the clean energy transition is nothing but bad faith.”</p><p></p><p>This year’s COP placed heightened attention on climate impacts and the need for accountability, but failed to deliver the concrete support that a small island COP should have.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Clausen added:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“We welcome the focus on enhanced ambition and the inclusion of pre-2020 climate action in the design of next year’s stocktake, the Talanoa Dialogue. This will form part of Fiji’s legacy and it is imperative that the dialogue will not just be a discussion but actually lead to countries ramping up their climate targets.</p><p></p><p>“Bonn still leaves a daunting task of concluding the Paris rulebook next year. Countries need to rediscover the political courage they had in Paris to complete the rulebook on time.”</p><p></p><p>A deal to break a deadlock in Bonn over the languishing pre-2020 climate action from developed countries and to anchor it in coming climate talks must now prove pivotal in forging additional ambition.</p><p></p><p><strong>Pacific Island Represent activist Samu Kuridrani said:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The Pacific has been dealing with the devastating impacts of climate change for years so time is a luxury we do not have. While leaders talk, we face the effects. It’s time for leaders to live up to their promises.”</p><p></p><p><strong>Greenpeace USA climate campaigner Naomi Ages said:</strong></p><p></p><p>“We have seen the true face of America here, exposing how Trump and his regressive fossil fuel agenda are outnumbered by those who proclaim with one voice, America is still in. It's been abundantly clear here that despite Trump, climate action continues. World leaders must now categorically reject any proposed weakening of America’s commitments and hold the US administration to account if it reneges.”</p><p></p><p><strong>Greenpeace Germany Executive Director Sweelin Heuss said:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“This COP saw Germany drastically lose credibility and leadership on climate action. Chancellor Merkel’s disappointing speech failed to align Germany with a coalition of progressive nations stepping away from coal, raising doubts if Germany is committed to the ambition of the Paris agreement. Only by deciding on a coal phase out will the new government be able to reach its climate targets for 2020 and 2030.”</p><p></p><p><strong>Greenpeace China Climate Policy Adviser Li Shuo:</strong></p><p></p><p>“The Pacific COP has been a way-station in China's aspiration to become a climate leader. The transformation from a developing country to a responsible global power takes time and courage, but climate leadership demands urgency. In 2018, eyes will increasingly turn to China to enhance the country's climate ambition and help conclude the Paris rulebook.”</p><p></p><p><strong>Greenpeace Southeast Asia Executive Director Yeb Saño said:</strong></p><p></p><p>"The voices from the climate frontlines have spoken in the Pacific COP. But how much have those who are historically most accountable for climate change listened? Those least responsible for climate change are suffering the worst impacts and this great injustice must be addressed. Governments and corporations must urgently change their policies and practices to avert climate-related human rights harms."</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Contact</strong>:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Tom Baxter, International Communications Officer, Greenpeace East Asia: <a href="mailto:tom.baxter@greenpeace.org">tom.baxter@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +49 152 1927 7342</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">For German media, contact Gregor Kessler, Communications, Greenpeace Germany: <a href="mailto:gregor.kessler@greenpeace.or">gregor.kessler@greenpeace.or</a>g, phone: +49 151 7270 2918</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Fri, 17 Nov 2017 15:07:00 Zclimate changekngwerum79e14ab1-e027-4fae-bc31-d177506d0c2ehttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Greenpeace-activists-protest-on-coal-ship-calling-on-Merkel-to-end-coal-use/Greenpeace activists protest on coal ship calling on Merkel to end coal useBonn, November 15, 2017 – Ahead of German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s appearance at the UN climate talks, 14 Greenpeace Germany activists protested on a coal freighter on the Rhine River calling for a coal phase-out in Germany.<p dir="ltr">The activists laid out a banner reading “Merkel’s Dirty Secret: Coal” as it passed by the UN climate conference being held in Bonn. The ship supplies German coal-fired power plants with several thousand tons of imported hard coal shipped from Rotterdam harbour, Germany’s largest supplier of imported coal. Just yesterday Rotterdam city council announced that it plans to phase out all of the harbour’s coal terminals. &nbsp;</p><p></p><p>Merkel, who has been seen in recent years as a climate champion, is due to address delegates at the UN summit with her credibility as a climate chancellor hanging in the balance.</p><p></p><p>"As Germany's CO2 emissions are forecast to rise again in 2017 for the second consecutive year Chancellor Merkel's climate protection pledge is only hot air," Greenpeace Germany climate expert Karsten Smid said. "Instead of more sweet talk, Mrs Merkel must bring a concrete timetable to Bonn for an exit from climate destroying coal."</p><p></p><p>During the speech, the Greenpeace ship Beluga II will be cruising in front of the negotiating area with a 7.5 by 7.5 meter banner with a portrait of Merkel and the appeal: "Acting instead of hypocrisy".</p><p></p><p>Chancellor Merkel has repeatedly promised to honour her international pledge to cut Germany's CO2 emissions by 40 percent by 2020 compared to 1990 levels, but at current rates the country is expected to fall far short of that target. Germany is currently forecast to only cut emissions by around 30 percent.</p><p></p><p>"Germany must phase out coal by 2030, otherwise the federal government will sabotage the Paris Agreement," Smid added.</p><p></p><p>Rotterdam harbour supplies 40% of north west Europe’s imported coal and is the largest supplier of Germany’s imported coal. Rotterdam city council’s decision to phase out coal terminals in its harbour puts extra pressure on Merkel to act.</p><p></p><p>“Rotterdam’s announcement puts the squeeze on Merkel. The economic, political and environmental logic all point towards one thing - coal has no future. Merkel must act on phasing out coal - there can be no more excuses,” said Greenpeace Netherlands climate campaigner Faiza Oulahsen.</p><p></p><p>“As the largest coal harbour in Europe, Rotterdam’s move is a recognition that the port bears responsibility to stop supplying the world’s most polluting fossil fuel to northern Europe, placing pressure on European governments to step up their actions to phase out coal.”</p><p></p><p>The exit from coal is a central issue in the ongoing coalition talks between the Union, the FDP and the Greens. While all parties are committed Germany’s climate goals, only the Greens have presented a proposal to reach them.</p><p></p><p>To reach the 2020 target, around 100 million tons of CO2 emissions need to be cut. In the short-term this can only be achieved by shutting down coal-fired power plants, whose electricity is now mainly exported abroad.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong><span id="docs-internal-guid-9572298c-c03b-ac30-5457-78f32365c78c">Notes:</span></strong></p><p></p><p>Photo and video available <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX6QHPS">here</a>:&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Media Contacts</strong>:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Karsten Smid, Greenpeace Germany: +49 (0) 171-7870821, <a href="mailto:karsten.smid@greenpeace.org">karsten.smid@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Björn Jettka, press officer, Greenpeace Germany: +49 (0) 171-8780778, <a href="mailto:bjoern.jettka@greenpeace.org">bjoern.jettka@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Photo desk, Greenpeace Germany: +49 (0) 40-306185377.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">TV material: Sonka Terfehr, video team, Greenpeace Germany, +49 (0) 175-5891718,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sonka.terfehr@greenpeace.org">sonka.terfehr@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Tom Baxter, International Communications Officer, Greenpeace East Asia: +49 152 1927 7342, <a href="mailto:tom.baxter@greenpeace.org">tom.baxter@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk: +31 (0) 20 718 2470, <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a> (available 24 hours)</p>Wed, 15 Nov 2017 15:00:00 Zclimate changekngwerum6105ec1a-d9be-48af-94e7-d018be93822bhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/ING-Bank-on-the-hook-for-not-reporting-climate-pollution/ING Bank on the hook for not reporting climate pollutionAmsterdam, 14 November 2017 - Today, a climate complaint against ING filed by Greenpeace Netherlands, Oxfam, BankTrack and Milieudefensie for violating OECD guidelines, was accepted by a Dutch representative of the OECD. [1] [2] The Dutch bank will be investigated by the Dutch National Contact Point (NCP) for having no plan to report on and reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions from its financing. <p>This is the first time a NCP has accepted a complaint on the basis of a threat to the climate. This could open up a new avenue for holding businesses accountable for their carbon footprint and climate impacts.</p><p></p><p>Kim Schoppink, a campaigner with Greenpeace Netherlands, said: <br /><br />"No corporation should get away with financing climate destruction. This should serve to accelerate the inevitable transition away from fossil fuels. To be responsible, businesses must report emissions and climate risks, or they too will face investigations and even lawsuits. The time for them to act is now."</p><p></p><p>Peter Ras, Senior Policy Advisor at Oxfam Novib, said: <br /> <br /> “The decision of the OECD National Contact Point to accept our complaint against ING is great news. We hope this is a wake-up call for the bank and that it will encourage ING to take concrete steps to reduce the climate impact of its financing.” &nbsp;</p><p></p><p>International companies, like ING, must respect the corporate social responsibility expectations of the country in which they are based. The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises is clear about what those expectations are. Among other things, the OECD considers it important that companies report on how much they contribute directly and indirectly to greenhouse gas emissions and that companies set targets to reduce emissions. ING does this for the emissions of its own operations, but not for those of the companies and projects it finances, even though these emissions are significant.</p><p></p><p>The four organisations sent their complaint to the NCP the 8th of May, 2017. They called on ING to demonstrate its commitment to the OECD Guidelines in relation to the climate impact of its investments. ING can do this by publishing details of the greenhouse gas emissions attributable to its investments, as well as setting ambitious, concrete and measurable targets to reduce them. This approach should align ING's climate policy with the aim of limiting global warming to 1.5°C, as agreed by the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015. [3]</p><p></p><p>This investigation is part of a growing global wave of legal challenges to businesses failing to act on climate change. This year, Commonwealth Bank acknowledged climate change as a material risk in its annual report, following a lawsuit brought by two shareholders that was later withdrawn following the Bank’s announcement. [4] Cities in California are also suing the world’s biggest companies for contributing to climate-fueled sea-level rise that will cost billions of dollars. [5] All of these actions are part of a concerted effort to ensure greater transparency of climate risks and a rapid transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><br /> ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes for the Editor:</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] Read the complaint <a href="https://www.oxfamnovib.nl/Files/rapporten/2017/OECD%20complaint%20against%20ING%202017.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[2] Read the Dutch NCP's acceptance of the complaint <a href="https://www.oesorichtlijnen.nl/actueel/nieuws/2017/11/14/publicatie-eerste-evaluatie-melding-oxfam-novib-greenpeace-banktrack-en-milieudefensie-vs.-ing" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[3] Read about the Paris Agreement <a href="http://unfccc.int/files/essential_background/convention/application/pdf/english_paris_agreement.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[4] Read about how climate change is a material risk&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/sep/21/commonwealth-bank-shareholders-drop-suit-over-non-disclosure-of-climate-risks" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[5] Read the about Californian cities suing Big Oil over climate change <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/legal-us-usa-oil-climatesuits/california-cities-sue-big-oil-firms-over-climate-change-idUSKCN1BV2QM" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Kim Schoppink - Climate &amp; Energy Campaigner - Greenpeace Netherlands +31681410797 - kim.schoppink@greenpeace.org</p><p></p><p>Peter Ras - Senior Policy Advisor - Oxfam Novib +31623300110 - peter.ras@oxfamnovib.nl</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p>Tue, 14 Nov 2017 09:20:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hooga31e02e3-7dfd-4d18-9652-f70581c73279http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/IEAs-energy-outlook-on-renewables-absurdly-pessimistic---Greenpeace/IEA’s energy outlook on renewables “absurdly pessimistic” - GreenpeaceHong Kong, 14 November 2017 - The International Energy Agency (IEA) today released its annual World Energy Outlook 2017 - a set of scenarios for global energy consumption and production which has a long history of dramatically underestimating renewable energy development.<p dir="ltr">The report does highlight, however, how a shift to clean energy and stronger air pollution regulation could prevent a staggering 1.6 million deaths per year from outdoor air pollution by 2040, while continued dependence on fossil fuels would see premature deaths from outdoor air pollution rise from 3 million today to more than 4 million in 2040 worldwide.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“This is an important reminder that the world is not on track to prevent catastrophic climate change and that air pollution from fossil fuels continues to claim millions of lives every year. Urgent action is needed across the world to shift away from coal, oil and gas,” said Lauri Myllyvirta, Energy Analyst at Greenpeace East Asia</p><p></p><p>However, the agency has painted a grim picture when it comes to the uptake of renewables. Incorporating real-world trends in renewable energy into the scenarios would show that the shift to renewable energy that is needed to address climate change and deadly air pollution is much more attainable than IEA projections make it seem. [1]</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The IEA is absurdly pessimistic about renewables,” said Myllyvirta. “The agency continues to project that annual investment in key renewable energy technologies will stagnate at current levels. This is a prediction made with stubborn consistency in every single one of the last 15 annual outlooks, and each time, it’s been proven breathtakingly wrong.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace’s breakdown of the World Energy Report projection:</p><p></p><ul><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Coal</strong>: Projected coal consumption and CO2 emissions in the business-as-usual (‘New Policies’) scenario have been adjusted downward marginally, reflecting progress with renewable energy and energy efficiency globally and in particular in China and India.</p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Oil</strong>: Oil consumption has been revised marginally upwards, failing to capture progress with electric vehicles in China and globally.</p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>China</strong>: Projected construction of new coal-fired power plants has been revised down in China, in line with the cancellation of large amounts of planned capacity this year.</p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>India</strong>: Projected coal-fired capacity in India has been revised upward, despite the amount of new coal power projects plummeting in the past year and projected capacity utilisation falling to levels that destroy the business case for new coal projects.</p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Air pollution</strong>: In India and Southeast Asia, air pollution is projected to get even worse in the report’s ‘New Policies’ scenario, whereas the rapid increases in renewable energy and stronger air pollutant emission standards in the ‘Sustainable Development’ scenario would see the amount of Indians exposed to pollution above the highest WHO interim target fall from 65% today to 10% in 2040, and in Indonesia from 30% to near-zero. In China, 50% of the population would still be be exposed to pollution above the national air quality standard in 2040, marginally down from 65% currently. In a clean energy pathway the percentage would fall to near-zero.</p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Nuclear</strong>: Despite acknowledging substantial fallbacks for nuclear (energy policy shifts in Korea and France, the Westinghouse collapse) the IEA still assumes significant growth under each scenarios: &nbsp;while generation from nuclear power hardly changed in the last 15 years (2591 TWh in 2000 and 2571 TWh in 2015), for the next 15 years it assumes 34% growth in NPS scenario (3440 TWh in 2030) and 67 % in the SDS scenario (4295 TWh in 2030).</p><p></p></li><p></p></ul><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1] For example, in the World Energy Outlooks published in 2002-2010, the annual solar power additions in the year 2015 were projected at 1-5 gigawatts, while the actual market size that year was 50 gigawatts - an astounding 10 times as high as the IEA projected just 5 years prior. <a href="https://steinbuch.wordpress.com/2017/06/12/photovoltaic-growth-reality-versus-projections-of-the-international-energy-agency/">https://steinbuch.wordpress.com/2017/06/12/photovoltaic-growth-reality-versus-projections-of-the-international-energy-agency/</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Tue, 14 Nov 2017 00:33:00 Znuclearclimate changeTristan Tremschnigb687b7ca-73ff-468e-8513-1949e820d64ahttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Worlds-eyes-on-Norway-as-historic-climate-trial-begins/World’s eyes on Norway as historic climate trial beginsOslo, Norway 13 November 2017 – Tomorrow, environmental organisations Greenpeace Nordic and Nature and Youth take on the Norwegian government in court for opening up new areas in the Arctic to oil drilling. They are arguing that drilling for oil violates the Paris Agreement as well as the Norwegian constitution. Winning the case could set a precedent for future climate cases around the world.<p dir="ltr">Norway’s Grandparents Climate Campaign has also joined the case, as intervenors against the government and in support of the environmental groups.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Truls Gulowsen, Head of Greenpeace Norway said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“This is a big day for all of us fighting climate change and greedy governments around the world. By allowing new oil drilling in the Arctic the Norwegian government puts homes, health and families everywhere at risk, and should be held accountable. It is clear to us that this new search for oil is in violation of the Paris Agreement and the Norwegian Constitution, and we look forward to raising these arguments in court.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">In the trial, set for 14-23 November, the plaintiffs will argue that the Norwegian government has violated the right to a healthy and safe environment for future generations granted by the Norwegian Constitution. This will be the first time this right is used in court. Around the world some 90 countries have a Constitutionally protected right to a healthy environment, and this lawsuit can have a ripple effect helping guide other jurisdictions on how to interpret these rights in their legal systems, and inspiring more people to hold their governments to account.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Ingrid Skjoldvær, Head of Nature and Youth, added:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The Norwegian government, like every government, has an obligation to protect people's right to a healthy environment. It is us in the younger generation, and our children, who will feel the worst effects of this oil being burned. This court case is giving us a critical opportunity to protect our futures and, we hope, providing a valuable tool for others to do the same.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">At the same time as the climate trial starts in Norway, Fiji is hosting the United Nations climate change conference COP 23 in Bonn, and attending the first day of the trial in Oslo are two young Pacific Islanders representatives from Fiji.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Alisi Nacewa, Pacific Island Represent activist said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">"We are here in Norway because our home is on the frontline of climate change. Our way of life is being impacted by extreme weather and rising sea levels right now. There is no way the continuation of oil and gas extraction, can deliver a world below 1.5 degrees. No way. No matter how politicians try to spin it. The Norwegian government has signed the Paris Agreement but they continue to drill for oil and supply the world with more fossil fuels. The two are in complete contradiction. It’s time to hold countries accountable for breaking their Paris commitments."</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The Norwegian government will defend their decision to, for the first time in 20 years, open up a new oil drilling area in the Barents Sea, allowing 13 oil companies to start new exploration campaigns in the Arctic. Norwegian state-owned Statoil has already begun their drilling operations in the Arctic this summer.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The 13 oil companies that have new license blocks in the Barents Sea are: Statoil (Norway), Capricorn, Tullow and Centrica (UK), Chevron and ConocoPhillips (USA), DEA (Germany), Aker BP (Norway), Idemitsu (Japan), Lukoil (Russia), Lundin Petroleum (Sweden), OMV (Austria), PGNiG (Norway/Poland).</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes</strong>:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Media briefings and background on the climate lawsuit:&nbsp;<a href="http://act.gp/2jkhjix">http://act.gp/2jkhjix</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Legal writ submitted to Oslo District Court:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/Global/norway/Arktis/Dokumenter/2016/legal_writ_english_final_20161018.pdf">http://act.gp/2hc0EJQ</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Nature and Youth is a youth organisation with branches all across Norway. They are connected to Young Friends of the Earth Europe, but it is the organisation in Norway that is a plaintiff in the case.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Photos and video clipreel:&nbsp;http://act.gp/2hviZp6</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Contacts</strong>:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Truls Gulowsen, spokesperson, Greenpeace Norway, &nbsp;+47 901 07 904, <a href="mailto:truls.gulowsen@greenpeace.org">truls.gulowsen@greenpeace.org<br class="kix-line-break" /></a>Ingrid Skjoldvær spokesperson, Nature and Youth + 47 977 02 181, <a href="mailto:ingridsk@nu.no">ingridsk@nu.no</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Daniel Bengtsson, international communications coordination, Greenpeace Nordic, +46 703 300 95 10, <a href="mailto:daniel.bengtsson@greenpeace.org">daniel.bengtsson@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Poul Bonke Justesen, press officer Greenpeace Nordic, +45 2629 4938, poul.bonke.justesen@greenpeace.org</p>Mon, 13 Nov 2017 08:45:00 Zclimate changeawillsonc831b56a-0712-40fe-8412-e8a338b2bb68http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Merkel-must-help-break-deadlock-on-pre-2020-climate-action-at-Pacific-COP/Merkel must help break deadlock on pre-2020 climate action at Pacific COPBonn, Germany – 13 November 2017 – Developed countries must break a deadlock at the UN climate talks in Bonn and discuss their pre-2020 climate actions, starting with COP host German Chancellor Merkel who can lead the way, Greenpeace said.<p dir="ltr">While there has been progress on the Paris rulebook and the design of next year’s stocktake of collective climate action efforts (the Talanoa Dialogue), the issue of pre-2020 climate action has emerged as the most contentious aspect of COP23 in Bonn.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Executive Director Jennifer Morgan said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Developing countries are rightfully concerned about pre-2020 climate action and developed countries need to show good faith by giving the issue the space it needs to discuss how to ratchet up our efforts.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Emissions need to peak by 2020 at the latest. This means pre-2020 climate action is critical if we’re to limit global warming to the 1.5 degrees. We have a small window of opportunity and the sooner we act, the better.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Germany has targeted a 40% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, but will fall far short of its target unless it ends its reliance on coal. Greenpeace is demanding Merkel signal a full coal phase out in the new coalition government agreement.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Merkel cannot truly call herself a friend of the Pacific is she fails to meet her commitments at home. The time for climate sweet talk has ended. Merkel must present a plan on how to reach and go beyond the 2020 targets,” Morgan added.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">In a year marked by a spate of destructive hurricanes, drought and floods, climate vulnerable Fiji is presiding over this year’s climate talks in Bonn, placing heightened focus on the threat of rising seas and extreme weather.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The climate talks also coincide with new figures from the Global Carbon Project revealing CO2 emissions are expected to rise this year by about 2 % after three years of zero growth due to the slower pace of emissions cuts in the EU and US and (anomalous) higher emissions in China.[1]</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“We are making progress, but not fast enough. We must do more. Developing countries are right to raise the issue of pre-2020 action. All stakeholders need to pull together,” Morgan said.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Bonn is another crucial step in the path and all eyes are on Chancellor Merkel. The US non-state actors have shown the true face of America by their commitment to climate action here in Bonn. Merkel and others, like the EU and China, now need to do the same,” Morgan said.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1]&nbsp;The Global Carbon Project’s report on the Global Carbon Budget is available <a href="http://www.globalcarbonproject.org/carbonbudget/17/publications.htm">HERE</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Contact:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Tom Baxter, International Communications Officer, Greenpeace East Asia: tom.baxter@greenpeace.org, phone: +49 152 1927 7342 (DE)</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">For interviews with Jennifer Morgan, contact Leola Abraham, Communications Manager, Greenpeace International: leola.abraham@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 6 46 16 20 12</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">For German media, contact Gregor Kessler, Communications, Greenpeace Germany: gregor.kessler@greenpeace.org, phone: +49 151 7270 2918</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Mon, 13 Nov 2017 08:38:00 Zclimate changeawillsond80b1c6a-130f-4697-a3cc-82032c5a9ebchttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/No-future-in-fossil-fuels---Greenpeace-Pacific-activists-call-for-climate-action-at-COP23/‘No future in fossil fuels’ - Greenpeace, Pacific activists call for climate action at COP23Bonn, Germany, November 10, 2017 - Activists from Greenpeace in Germany and Pacific Island Represent have sent a message to leaders meeting at the UN climate talks in Bonn, projecting an image of faces onto a coal power plant and calling for an urgent phase out of fossil fuels. <p dir="ltr">The message “No future in fossil fuels” and #COP23 was projected onto the polluting Neurath coal power plant alongside faces from the Pacific Islands and around the world to put a spotlight on the impact the emissions from climate summit host nation Germany have on the Pacific.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The activists were also critical of Pacific regional neighbour Australia and the impacts its coal exports and emissions have on small island states, where people are already living with the consequences of climate change.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The unabated mining and burning of fossil fuels is driving climate change, making cyclones and storm surges more frequent and more intense,” Pacific Island Represent activist Alisi Nacewa said.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The damage already caused by fossil fuels cannot be reversed but we can still prevent entire Pacific Islands from being swallowed up if we rapidly phase out fossil fuels. Paris Agreement signatories have already promised this. Now is the time to do it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">As signatories to the Paris Climate Agreement, Germany and Australia have agreed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, but are so far failing to act on that promise.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Germany still generates more than 40 percent of its electricity from coal (1) and has continued to build dirty coal plants since committing to emissions reductions, while Australia has greenlighted the construction of Adani Group’s Carmichael mega coal mine and continues to hand out billions of dollars in fossil fuel subsidies.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Chancellor Angela Merkel has promised to comply with the German climate target of a 40 percent reduction in CO2 emissions by 2020. This is only possible with a coal phase-out,” said Greenpeace Germany climate expert Karsten Smid. “If she fails to do so, she is sacrificing the fruits of the clean energy transition for the sake of the coal industry.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The Neurath brown coal-fired power plant is located 50 kilometres from the climate conference. With an output of 4400 megawatts, Neurath is the largest coal-fired power plant in Germany and the second largest in Europe. With annual emissions of 32 million tons of CO2, it is one of the most climate-damaging coal-fired power plants in the world.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The power plant's CO2 emissions are more than twice as high as those of the island state of Fiji. Despite massive protests, Chancellor Merkel laid the foundation stone for the new BoA 2&amp;3 lignite blocks from the energy company RWE in Neurath in August 2006.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Pacific Island Represent activist Samu Kuridrani added:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Expanding fossil fuel industries at home, while sweet-talking to vulnerable countries on the world stage, goes against the spirit of the Paris Agreement. We want to show world leaders that we see through their deception and demand real action. You can’t claim to be a friend of the Pacific while ramping up your fossil fuel industry.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes</strong>:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1] <a href="https://www.cleanenergywire.org/factsheets/germanys-energy-consumption-and-power-mix-charts" target="_blank">Germany’s energy consumption and power mix in charts</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Photos </strong>available <a href="http://act.gp/2zrHLxl" target="_blank">here</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace Australia Pacific Media Campaigner Martin Zavan, <a href="mailto:martin.zavan@greenpeace.org">martin.zavan@greenpeace.org</a>; +61 424 295 422</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Björn Jettka, Press Officer, Greenpeace Germany, bjoern.jettka@greenpeace.org; +49 1718 780 778</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Tom Baxter, International Communications Officer, Greenpeace East Asia: <a href="mailto:tom.baxter@greenpeace.org">tom.baxter@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +49 152 1927 7342 (DE)</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org; phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Fri, 10 Nov 2017 06:11:00 Zclimate changeTristan Tremschnig2f0732e6-0902-443e-8c3f-d9e1aa467375http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Chinas-Singles-Day-clothing-sales-produced-258000-tonnes-of-CO2-in-2016---Greenpeace/China's "Singles Day" clothing sales produced 258,000 tonnes of CO2 in 2016 - GreenpeaceBeijing, 8 November 2017 - Apparel sales from China’s 2016 “Singles Day” internet shopping bonanza produced 258,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions -- equivalent to the CO2 absorbed by 2.58 million trees, new research from Greenpeace East Asia shows. [1]<p>“Singles Day is a catastrophe for the environment. Not only does it create huge amounts of waste, but the CO2 emissions from manufacturing, packaging and shipping are enormous. One-click, disposable fashion is not a sustainable model for the future of retail,” said Greenpeace East Asia toxics campaigner Nie Li.<br /><br />Carbon emissions from online shopping are higher than from brick-and-mortar retail. [2] Greenpeace found that delivery of 2016 Singles Day orders produced 52,400 tonnes of CO2, equivalent to the CO2 absorbed by 524,000 trees. In China, the use of cell phones and computers to place online orders produced 3.22 million tonnes of CO2 in 2015, or an average of 8,800 tonnes of carbon per day.<br /><br />The recycling rate of packaging materials remains low. Nationwide, less than 10 percent of paper, cardboard and plastic packaging used in delivery is recycled. [3]<br /><br />In China, clothing comprises the largest portion of online retail sales, at 28.5 percent. [4] China’s textile and clothing industry is ranked third out of 41 industries in terms of volume of wastewater discharge. [5] Twenty percent of China’s rivers and lakes have been contaminated as a result of dying, printing and treatment from the textile industry. [6]<br /><br />Singles Day, which was reportedly started by a group of Nanjing University students in 1993 in celebration of singledom, was co-opted by online shopping giant Alibaba in 2009. [7] &nbsp;In 2016, Alibaba’s Singles Day sales climbed to US$17.8 billion, and it’s now the biggest shopping day in the world. [8]<br /><br />Greenpeace urges that manufacturers create more durable products and invest in closed-loop production. At the same time, consumers worldwide have the choice to purchase clothes that last longer, to buy second hand items, and to repair clothing instead of throwing it away.<br /><br />“As consumers, the simplest thing we can do is to buy less and wear our clothes for longer. It takes 2700 litres of water to make one T-shirt, so buying a used shirt instead of a new one can save as much water as the average adult drinks in three years. There is growing discussion in China about sustainability, but this needs to be reflected in how we buy and make things,” said Nie Li.<br /><br /><strong>Notes:</strong><br /><br />[1] &nbsp;See full report [in CH]:&nbsp;<a href="http://210.6.198.8/cache/www.greenpeace.org.cn/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/%E7%BB%BF%E8%89%B2%E5%92%8C%E5%B9%B3%E3%80%8A%E8%B4%AD%E7%89%A9%E5%8F%8D%E6%80%9D%E5%AD%A3%EF%BC%9A%E7%BD%91%E8%B4%AD%E7%9A%84%E7%A2%B3%E6%8E%92%E6%94%BE%E5%8F%8A%E5%85%B6%E4%BB%96%E7%8E%AF%E5%A2%83%E5%BD%B1%E5%93%8D%E3%80%8B%E6%8A%A5%E5%91%8A.pdf?ich_args=91a0e63b7e09abc93af3c26affb353b1_1_0_0_4_5a020a89d0c3dcef148b1f93d384985c9f16827a4eef6d3e880bdc0f2a02422f_985600e781d86c700faa6890f06ae566_1_0&amp;ich_ip=" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://210.6.198.8/cache/www.greenpeace.org.cn/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/%25E7%25BB%25BF%25E8%2589%25B2%25E5%2592%258C%25E5%25B9%25B3%25E3%2580%258A%25E8%25B4%25AD%25E7%2589%25A9%25E5%258F%258D%25E6%2580%259D%25E5%25AD%25A3%25EF%25BC%259A%25E7%25BD%2591%25E8%25B4%25AD%25E7%259A%2584%25E7%25A2%25B3%25E6%258E%2592%25E6%2594%25BE%25E5%258F%258A%25E5%2585%25B6%25E4%25BB%2596%25E7%258E%25AF%25E5%25A2%2583%25E5%25BD%25B1%25E5%2593%258D%25E3%2580%258B%25E6%258A%25A5%25E5%2591%258A.pdf?ich_args%3D91a0e63b7e09abc93af3c26affb353b1_1_0_0_4_5a020a89d0c3dcef148b1f93d384985c9f16827a4eef6d3e880bdc0f2a02422f_985600e781d86c700faa6890f06ae566_1_0%26ich_ip%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1510294235636000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFL8wJ6C4vpxl5D0fxQiAWwrOVZqQ">here</a>.<br /><br />[2] Weideli D, Cheikhrouhou N., Environmental Analysis of US Online Shopping<br /><br />[3] CIECC,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ec.com.cn/article/pthj/wlcc/201608/11278_1.html" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://www.ec.com.cn/article/pthj/wlcc/201608/11278_1.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1510294235636000&amp;usg=AFQjCNE6CmH58zIFzauKhqN1v0vSCqUYug">here</a><br /><br />[4] iiMedia Research -&nbsp;<a href="https://baijia.baidu.com/s?old_id=690661" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://baijia.baidu.com/s?old_id%3D690661&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1510294235636000&amp;usg=AFQjCNF4QWPTUtjeHWugCpEtHYWBOuqlTQ">here</a><br /><br />[5] Ministry of Environmental Protection (2017), 2015 State Of Environment Report<br /><br />[6] &nbsp;Raybin, A, Water Pollution and Textiles Industry<br /><br />[7]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newyorker.com/business/currency/singles-day-chinas-black-friday" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.newyorker.com/business/currency/singles-day-chinas-black-friday&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1510294235636000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHbgpbqW0b7IFyVj_noRWM6HTIOtg">Singles’ Day: China’s Very Own Black Friday,</a>&nbsp;The New Yorker<br /><br />[8]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ft.com/content/8aa13ac6-a7b1-11e6-8b69-02899e8bd9d1" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.ft.com/content/8aa13ac6-a7b1-11e6-8b69-02899e8bd9d1&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1510294235636000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEetS-sae7uVG9YZzfDfVlY0xVOMA">Alibaba’s Singles Day sale worth record $17.8bn</a>, Financial Times<br /><br /><strong>Media contacts:</strong><br /><br />Erin Newport, International Communications Officer, Greenpeace East Asia, Beijing,&nbsp;<a href="tel:+86%20183%200114%209704" target="_blank">+86 18301149704</a>,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:erin.newport@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">erin.newport@greenpeace.org</a><br /><br />Greenpeace International Press Desk,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a>, phone:&nbsp;<a href="tel:+31%2020%20718%202470" target="_blank">+31 (0) 20 718 2470</a>&nbsp;(available 24 hours)</p>Thu, 09 Nov 2017 06:11:00 Zclimate changetoxicsTristan Tremschnig39b8f175-da42-4856-b7f7-c021b4510416http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Filipino-typhoon-survivors-demand-climate-action-on-Haiyan-anniversary/Filipino typhoon survivors demand climate action on Haiyan anniversaryTacloban, Philippines, 7 November 2017 - With the UN climate talks underway in Bonn, and as the Philippines is preparing for the visit of President Trump for the upcoming ASEAN Summit, Filipinos are gathering to commemorate the fourth anniversary of super typhoon Haiyan, the most devastating storm to ever make landfall in history.<p>“This year’s spate of extreme weather events are a clear signal to governments and corporations that they must step up action on climate change,” said Yeb Saño, Executive Director of Greenpeace Southeast Asia, whose family is from Eastern Visayas, the region hit hardest by Haiyan. “Fossil fuels must stay in the ground. Government delegations meeting in Bonn must stand up and propel climate action forward or be held accountable for their inaction.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>President Trump’s current tour of Asia</span><span>, coincides both with the Haiyan anniversary and the COP 23 UN climate talks. President Trump will be in the Philippines on 12-13 November.</span><span> </span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>“</span><span>While Trump seems to deny climate change and apparently defends fossil fuel interests, &nbsp;Filipinos have learned the hard way that climate change is real and happening now. Greenpeace stands with typhoon survivors and all those impacted by climate change, and especially with the brave activists fighting for climate justice through the courts," </span><span>said</span><span> Saño.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Typhoon Haiyan (or Yolanda in the Philippines), packed 300km/h winds and a 7.5m storm surge that locals say claimed many more lives than the official toll of 6,329, and displaced millions of people who are still rebuilding their lives. The Haiyan commemoration honours those lost and celebrates the second lease on life that survivors feel they’ve been given, as well as the fighting spirit that the local Waray-Waray people are famous for.</span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>In 2015, Filipino typhoon survivors, other communities suffering the impacts of climate change, and civil society organisations, including Greenpeace Southeast Asia (Philippines), </span><span>filed a petition with the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in the Philippines to investigate the responsibility of big fossil fuel companies for climate-related human rights harms (2).</span><span> </span><span>The Commission has called on 47 carbon producers, including ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, Chevron, Total, BHP Billiton, Suncor, and ConocoPhillips, to show up at the first meeting with the petitioners on 11 December, as part of its investigation.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>As part of the Haiyan commemoration, over 500 students and local community members sent a strong visual message to Bonn, calling for climate justice in a world </span><span>where those least responsible for climate change suffer the worst consequences</span><span>. Commemoration activities also include art exhibits and storytelling events, culminating in a memorial walk and candlelight vigil on 8 November to mark the anniversary.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Yeb and his brother, AG Saño, a visual artist, activist, and Haiyan survivor, are among the CHR signatories. &nbsp;AG is currently in Bonn to call for climate justice on behalf of the other petitioners. </span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>On 6 November, AG Saño delivered a message during the COP23 opening plenary: “You might remember when an emotional Philippine negotiator spoke about Typhoon Haiyan at COP19 in Warsaw (3), and his despair for his own brother in the eye of the storm. I'm that brother. I speak on behalf of the people who have suffered, and will continue to suffer because of climate change. We will not be sacrificed to a warming climate and demand that those responsible for driving climate change are held responsible.”</span></p><p></p><p><span><span><br /></span></span><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>1] The Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. 2015. </span><a href="http://ndrrmc.gov.ph/attachments/article/1329/FINAL_REPORT_re_Effects_of_Typhoon_YOLANDA_%28HAIYAN%29_06-09NOV2013.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Final Report re Effects of Typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan)</span></a><span>.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[2] </span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>The Climate Change and Human Rights Petition</span></a><span> - see section V. Commission on Human Rights’ Notice for companies to attend preliminary conference of parties.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[3] </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SSXLIZkM3E" target="_blank"><span>Yeb Saño’s emotional speech at the UN climate talks in Warsaw (COP 19)</span></a><span> on 11th November 2013.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Link to photos and video clips <a href="http://act.gp/2yChv3H" target="_blank">here</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">In Tacloban, Philippines:<span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">JP Agcaoili, Communications and Digital Manager, Greenpeace Southeast Asia (Philippines), email: jp.agcaoili@greenpeace.org; tel. +639498891334</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span>In Bonn, Germany:<span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Desiree Llanos Dee, Climate Justice Campaigner, Greenpeace Southeast Asia-Philippines,&nbsp;email: <a href="mailto:desiree.llanosdee@greenpeace.org">desiree.llanosdee@greenpeace.org</a>; +639985959732</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, </span><span>pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</span><span>; phone: </span><span>+31 (0) 20 718 2470</span><span> (available 24 hours)</span></p>Tue, 07 Nov 2017 07:38:00 Zclimate changeshchung226fe365-3aa1-4117-9943-a4dd7e36a3cdhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/No-time-to-waste-climate-impacts-demand-response-at-Pacific-COP23/No time to waste: climate impacts demand response at Pacific COP Bonn, November 3, 2017 – In a year marked by devastating hurricanes, floods and drought, Greenpeace said real world leaders must stand up at the UN climate talks in Bonn and propel climate action forward or be held accountable for their inaction.<p>Two years since the Paris Climate Agreement signalled the intent to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, Greenpeace said leaders meeting in Bonn must now achieve real progress on the Paris Agreement’s implementation guidelines (the rulebook).</p><p></p><p>Leaders must also set the groundwork for raising climate ambition and ending the injustice of inaction ahead of the first stocktake of collective efforts in 2018. (1)</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Executive Director Jennifer Morgan said:</p><p></p><p>“We have no time to waste. Our climate is changing, putting people and communities increasingly at threat, from Suva to Washington or anywhere, but we have a window of opportunity to take fast, bold action to deliver true security and justice for every one of us.</p><p></p><p>“At this year’s COP, leaders can start fulfilling the promises they made in Paris and signal their intent to seize the opportunity and the obligation of our time by ramping up climate action.”</p><p></p><p>Dubbed the Pacific COP because it is being presided over by Fiji, it will be the first time the global community has met since US President Trump announced Washington would withdraw from the Paris agreement. Fiji has called for Bonn to become a visionary summit and a reaffirmation of climate action.</p><p></p><p>“Trump’s decision to back out of Paris has backfired spectacularly, sparking a groundswell of support for global climate action. There is no turning back and there will be no renegotiation and that message must be made clear at COP23. We expect new leaders to emerge in Bonn and the eyes of the world will be on the EU, China and others to step up,” Morgan added.</p><p></p><p>The continued hypocrisy of Paris signatories is also being exposed as people around the world take matters into their own hands. On November 14, the Norwegian government’s Arctic oil drilling agenda will be challenged in court as part of a global wave of people litigating to hold governments and big polluters to account. (2)</p><p></p><p>“Negotiating for global climate action in Bonn while planning to open up the Arctic for oil drilling is simply incompatible and when politicians put oil before people, they need to be held accountable. This is why we are taking Arctic oil to court,” Morgan added.</p><p></p><p>In Germany, summit co-host Angela Merkel must also bring substantial climate commitments to the Pacific COP if she is to reclaim her climate-chancellor badge.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace Germany Executive Director Sweelin Heuss said:</p><p></p><p>“Coal is still a major part of Germany’s energy mix threatening the nation’s targeted emissions cuts, while CO2 emissions from the transport sector continue to rise despite the promises of cleaner, more efficient cars. What authority does a COP host hold if it fails to deliver on its own promises? Germany must now kick its coal habit and signal the end of the line for the combustion engine.”</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;<strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p>&nbsp;1. More information can be found in Greenpeace’s media briefing, <a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/briefings/climate/COP23/COP23_mission_brief.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;2. More information on the court case against the Norwegian government, <a href="https://www.savethearctic.org/en/peoplevsarcticoil/blog/we-are-going-to-court/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>&nbsp;Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Tom Baxter, International Communications Officer, Greenpeace East Asia: <a href="mailto:tom.baxter@greenpeace.org">tom.baxter@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +86 156 5241 1229 (CH), +49 152 1927 7342 (DE)</p><p></p><p>For interviews with Jennifer Morgan, contact Leola Abraham, Communications Manager, Greenpeace International: <a href="mailto:leola.abraham@greenpeace.org">leola.abraham@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +31 6 46 16 20 12</p><p></p><p>For interviews with Sweelin Heuss, contact Gregor Kessler, Communications, Greenpeace Germany: <a href="mailto:gregor.kessler@greenpeace.org">gregor.kessler@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +49 151 7270 2918</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p>Fri, 03 Nov 2017 10:05:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hoog8a651355-bd7f-4468-a162-8b0d8e121fc8http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Newly-discovered-orangutan-species-in-Indonesia-already-at-risk--/Newly discovered orangutan species in Indonesia already at risk Jakarta, Indonesia, 3 November 2017 - Researchers have announced the discovery of a new species of orangutan in the north of Sumatra Island. The Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis) is the first new addition in almost a century to the small club of great apes, joining its fellow Sumatran and Borneo orangutans, gorillas, bonobos, chimpanzees and humans.[1]<p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The population of genetically and morphologically unique Tapanuli orangutans is estimated at fewer than 800 remaining individuals, concentrated in a small number of forest fragments totalling 1,000 sq.km in the districts of Central, North, and South Tapanuli. Their hilly habitat is threatened by industrial and agricultural development, including a proposed hydroelectric development which could impact up to eight percent of their remaining heartland, researchers said.</span></p><p></p><p>“Unfortunately threats which include deforestation and fires mean that any new species discovered in Indonesia’s forests will struggle to survive. While Indonesian biodiversity keeps surprising us, so does the lack of real protection it gets from the government”, said Ratri Kusumohartono, Greenpeace Indonesia Forest Campaigner.</p><p></p><p>Last August, the Environment and Forestry Ministry of Indonesia published a study on Borneo and Sumatra orangutans that confirms numbers have plummeted since the last survey was carried out in 2004, and established habitat destruction as one of the main causes.[2] Borneo orangutans are now thought to number only an estimated 0.13 to 0.47 individuals per square kilometer within their range, down from the 2004 estimated density of around 0.45 to 0.76 per km2.</p><p></p><p>“Companies continue to develop palm and pulp plantations in forests and peatland that are some of the last homes for orangutans. The few remaining orangutan strongholds such as the forests in Batang Toru, in Sumatra, and Sungai Putri, in Kalimantan, must be completely off industry limits if we want to save Indonesia’s most iconic animal species.”</p><p></p><p>Tapanuli orangutans were only ‘discovered’ by scientists in the late 1990s. In their just-published description of the new species, researchers used genetic comparison to estimate they split from Sumatran orangutans to their north as long ago as 3.38 million years ago. The newly recognised Tapanuli orangutan has a different diet, call, differently sized &amp; shaped skull and different hair colour and pattern, among other unique aspects of behaviour and appearance.</p><p></p><p>[ENDS]</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1] <a href="http://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(17)31245-9">‘Morphometric, Behavioral, and Genomic Evidence for a New Orangutan Species’, Current Biology (journal)&nbsp;</a></p><p></p><p>[2] <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/Press-Centre/Press-Releases/All-deforestation-in-orangutan-habitat-must-be-stopped-immediately/">All deforestation in orangutan habitat must be stopped immediately; Borneo orangutans in decline, official survey shows&nbsp;</a></p><p></p><p>Images are available&nbsp;<a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX2QCFX">here</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Ratri Kusumohartono, Greenpeace Indonesia Forests Campaigner, tel: +628118003717, tkusumoh@greenpeace.org</p><p></p><p>Sol Gosetti, Media Coordinator for Greenpeace Indonesia Forest Campaign, tel: +447807352020, <a href="mailto:sol.gosetti@greenpeace.org">sol.gosetti@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p>Ester Meryana, Greenpeace Indonesia media officer, tel: 08111924090, emeryana@greenpeace.org</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Fri, 03 Nov 2017 02:57:00 Zforestsjperry68765088-7b5f-43fd-9e4f-17ce7dd7e3cchttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/cca-campaign-Antarctic-nations-fall-short-on-marine-protection/Greenpeace launches campaign to create ‘largest protected area on Earth’ - as Antarctic nations fall short on marine protectionHobart, 27 October 2017 - Greenpeace has launched a global campaign for an Antarctic Sanctuary, covering 1.8 million square kilometres of ocean, to protect whales, penguins and other wildlife. <p>Following a failure to agree strong marine protection in the East Antarctic [1], Greenpeace has called for governments to show “greater vision and ambition” in the coming year and create the largest protected area on Earth: an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary.</p><p></p><p>The Antarctic Sanctuary would be five times the size of Germany, in the Weddell Sea, next to the Antarctic peninsula. [2]</p><p></p><p>“Over the next 12 months we have an opportunity to make history: to create an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary which would be the largest protected area on Earth’ said Frida Bengtsson, head of Greenpeace’s Antarctic Campaign. “Ocean sanctuaries not only protect incredible wildlife like whales and penguins, but they ensure healthy oceans which soak up carbon dioxide and help us to tackle climate change.”</p><p></p><p>The proposal, submitted by the EU and championed by the German Government, will be considered in October 2018 by the governments responsible for management of the Antarctic marine environment (CCAMLR), which have just concluded this year’s proceedings, having failed to agree strong marine protection in the East Antarctic.</p><p></p><p>“From great blue whales to vast colonies of Emperor and Adélie penguins, Antarctic wildlife is already under acute pressure from climate change and now industrial fishing vessels are vacuuming up the tiny shrimp-like krill which Antarctic life relies upon. The fishing industry simply can’t be allowed to expand their operations and steal food from threatened penguins and whales. We now have a unique opportunity to make sure that doesn't happen,” said Bengtsson.</p><p></p><p>“We have just 12 months to create the largest protected area on Earth. With almost half our planet made up of waters outside of national borders, and an urgent global need for more large ocean sanctuaries, governments now need to show greater vision and ambition to protect what belongs to us all.”</p><p></p><p>Alex Rogers, Professor of Conservation Biology, University of Oxford said: &nbsp;</p><p></p><p>“If we’re going to avoid the worst effects of climate change and protect biodiversity we need to safeguard more than 30% of our oceans and the Antarctic is a fantastic place to start. Threats to the Antarctic are increasing, such as climate change and pollution, including from plastics and fishing. Creating large marine reserves can allow these ecosystems to remain in a fully diverse and functional state. Furthermore, the importance of Antarctic ecosystems in sequestering carbon is only now being realised. There is a narrow window of time for governments to work together to protect the oceans so the time for action is now.”</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] The <a href="http://www.antarctica.gov.au/law-and-treaty/ccamlr/marine-protected-areas" target="_blank">East Antarctic Marine Protected Area</a> aims to protect representative areas of open ocean and seabed biodiversity in East Antarctica. It comprises the following areas: MacRobertson, Drygalski and D’Urville Sea-Mertz. The proposal was prepared by the European Union and Australia.</p><p></p><p>[2] Greenpeace is campaigning for an Antarctic Sanctuary covering 1.8 million square kilometres in the Weddell Sea. The <a href="https://www.bmel.de/EN/Forests-Fisheries/Marine-Conservation/_Texte/CCAMLR.html" target="_blank">proposal</a> has been submitted by the EU and backed by the German Government. It will be considered when CCAMLR next convenes, in October 2018.</p><p></p><p>The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) was established by international convention in 1982 with the objective of conserving Antarctic marine life. It consists of 25 members. For further information, see: <a href="https://www.ccamlr.org/en" target="_blank">https://www.ccamlr.org/en</a></p><p></p><p>For a selection of historic Greenpeace images from the Antarctic, see <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXZH51J" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;<strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Luke Massey, Press &amp; Communications Officer, <a href="mailto:luke.massey@greenpeace.org">luke.massey@greenpeace.org</a>, +44 (0) 7973 873 155</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a>, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Fri, 27 Oct 2017 13:27:00 ZoceansShuk-Wah Chung266ceb87-c0c3-4d7b-853b-29bfc3da446fhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Petition-Essity-the-Great-Northern-Forest/People all over the world ask Essity to stop wiping away the Great Northern ForestStockholm, 26 October 2017 – Greenpeace Nordic representatives and Sámi artist, Sofia Jannok delivered the signatures of almost a quarter of a million people to Essity in Stockholm today. Signatories are asking Essity to clean up its supply chain and ensure that the company is not involved in the destruction of the last critical forest landscapes in the Great Northern Forest.<p>Greenpeace Nordic Great Northern Forest project leader, Erika Bjureby said:</p><p></p><p>“The world’s second-largest tissue producer needs take responsibility for the protection of these critically important forests. People all over the world - tissue and toilet-paper consumers - are telling Essity that the last critical forest landscapes should not become toilet paper.”</p><p></p><p>The 244 627 signatures were delivered to Essity by Greenpeace Nordic and Sofia Jannok, a twice-Grammy-nominated Sámi artist from Sweden. Essity received the petition in Stockholm at the headquarters of the company on the same day that the company announced its Q3 results.</p><p></p><p>Sofia Jannok, Sami artist and environmentalist said:</p><p></p><p>“Standing up for the indigenous peoples is to stand up for The Great Northern Forest. Protecting critical forest landscapes is not only vital for the Sámi community, but for all humanity. We all depend on the forest.”</p><p></p><p>The report, Wiping Away the Boreal published on 27 September by Greenpeace International shows the connection between Essity and destruction of critical forest landscapes of the Great Northern Forest in Sweden, Finland and Russia. [1]</p><p></p><p>In Sweden, Essity sources its pulp from SCA Östrand pulp mill. Some of the raw material for the pulp comes from areas which have been identified by the Swedish authorities as having ‘particularly high ecological preservation values’. SCA is also planting non-native lodgepole pine, which threatens the indigenous Sámi people’s way of life by decreasing access to natural grazing areas for their reindeer. [2]</p><p></p><p>Erika Bjureby continued:</p><p></p><p>“It’s not illegal to chop down the last critical forest landscapes, but it is brutal. That is exactly why we need a proper process for defining the areas in need of legal protection. The logging in these forest areas must stop now. We cannot engage in wordplay while harvesters are actively cutting down precious forested areas. Essity needs to take action and show how they are committed to forest protection before these biodiverse habitats are ripped to pieces.”</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p>Photo and video:</p><p></p><p>Images of the critical forest landscapes logged by Essity’s supplier SCA in Jämtland, Sweden can be seen <a href="http://act.gp/2g7voek" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace petition can be seen <a href="http://act.gp/2zFxpqb" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>Notes to editors:</p><p></p><p>1] Link to the report Wiping Away the Boreal http://act.gp/2fo7Hye</p><p></p><p>2] Between 1973 and 2014, SCA planted 300,000 ha of lodgepole pine on its lands in northern Sweden</p><p></p><p>Media contacts:</p><p></p><p>Juha Aromaa, Communications lead for the Great Northern Forest campaign, +358 50 369 6202, juha.aromaa@greenpeace.org</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Thu, 26 Oct 2017 10:07:00 ZforestsArin de Hoog0af5cac7-92c8-4718-ba34-40102c434fe3http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/ExxonMobil-Shell-human-rights-investigation-climate-justice/ExxonMobil, Shell among companies told to attend human rights investigation over climate changeManila, 20 October 2017 - The Commission on Human Rights in the Philippines have called on 47 carbon producers to attend a preliminary meeting in its investigation into their corporate responsibility for climate-related human rights abuses (1). The companies include ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, Chevron, Total, BHP Billiton, Suncor, and ConocoPhillips.<p dir="ltr">This is the first opportunity for &nbsp;the Filipino petitioners to &nbsp;meet representatives of the fossil fuel companies face-to-face. Though carbon producers might choose to ignore the request for their attendance, the preliminary conference is set to take place on 11 December, in which the petitioners and companies need to discuss and agree evidence submission and witness testimonies.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“This is an unprecedented moment in the climate justice movement and especially for the thousands of typhoon survivors who are living with the impacts of climate change,” said Desiree Llanos Dee, Climate Justice campaigner for Greenpeace Southeast Asia in the Philippines. </span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Filipino typhoon survivors, other communities suffering the impacts of climate change, and civil society organizations, including Greenpeace Southeast Asia (Philippines), initially petitioned the Commission for the investigation in 2015 (2), two years after super-typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) claimed the lives of more than 6,300 people and affected millions of others who have yet to recover (3).</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The Commission has full authority, based on its mandate under the Philippine Constitution, to investigate human rights harms in the Philippines, including impacts resulting from the companies’ global activities (4). So far, the companies have been using ‘courtroom tactics’ in an effort to avoid public scrutiny of their business activities that are contributing to human rights harms (5). Failure to attend the 11 December preliminary meeting would be a reflection of its lack of commitment to its corporate responsibility.</span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“All the recent extreme weather events - from hurricanes in the US to monsoon flooding in South Asia - is not a coincidence. It’s the result of climate change,” said Llanos Dee. “A wave of climate justice cases are happening around the world, so while fossil fuel companies may try to run, they can’t hide. The science is clear: pollution from fossil fuel companies drives climate change, and this move by the Commission sends a strong signal around the world that those responsible for climate change will be held accountable.”</span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>Despite knowing the severe risks posed by climate change for decades (6), the fossil fuel industry continues to drive climate change (7). The trend towards renewable energy is growing (8) and, with the Paris Agreement in force, a move towards an era free from fossil fuels is inevitable, along with a just transition for workers and communities affected by the industry’s downfall.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“The Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, and the petitioners will not back down,” said AG Saño, visual artist, activist, and one of the petitioners who survived super-typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“We urge the CEOs of these major carbon producers to fully participate in the investigation, publicise their plans for stopping their use of fossil fuels, and explain how they intend to eliminate, remedy, or prevent human rights harms from climate change. Fossil fuels need to stay in the ground. After all we want to thrive and not just survive.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“Many homes were destroyed during Typhoon Yolanda and people died - including some I knew,” said Isagani Serrano, president of the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM), an organisation that provides support in the aftermath of disasters. “We hope these CEOs look deep in their hearts and see how their profit harms people and the planet.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>AG Saño will continue his advocacy for climate justice by representing the Filipino petitioners at COP 23 in Bonn in November. </span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes for Editors:</strong><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>1) </span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>The Climate Change and Human Rights Petition</span></a><span> - see section V. Commission on </span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Human Rights’ Notice for companies to attend preliminary conference of parties</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>2) </span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>Petition Requesting for Investigation of the Responsibility of the Carbon Majors for Human Rights Violations or Threats of Violations Resulting from the Impacts of Climate Change</span></a><span>. 9 May 2016.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>3) The Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. 2015. </span><a href="http://ndrrmc.gov.ph/attachments/article/1329/FINAL_REPORT_re_Effects_of_Typhoon_YOLANDA_%28HAIYAN%29_06-09NOV2013.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Final Report re Effects of Typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan). &nbsp;</span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">4) Sections 17-18, Article 13 of the Philippine Constitution. For further details see <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank">Petitioners´ Consolidated Reply</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>5) Corporate Responses and comments on the petition </span><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/press/releases/Worlds-largest-carbon-producers-ordered-to-respond-to-allegations-of-human-rights--abuses-from-climate-change/The-Climate-Change-and-Human-Rights-Petition/" target="_blank"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>6A) </span><a href="https://secured-static.greenpeace.org/seasia/ph/PageFiles/735291/Petitioners-Reply/Annex_B_CHR-NI-2016-0001_CIEL_Opinion_10-2-17-R.pdf" target="_blank"><span>Center for International Environmental Law’s synthesis of knowledge</span></a><span> available to major carbon producers, and how individual companies could have reduced or mitigated the climate risks arising from their products, services, and business operations</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>6B) </span><a href="https://business-humanrights.org/en/amicus-briefs" target="_blank"><span>Amicus briefs</span></a><span> submitted to the Philippines Commission on Human Rights</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>7) Ekwurzel, B., Boneham, J., Dalton, M.W. et al. The rise in global atmospheric CO2, surface temperature, and sea level from emissions traced to major carbon producers, Climatic Change (2017) 144: 579. </span><span><a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-017-1978-0" target="_blank">https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-017-1978-0</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>8) Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21). &nbsp;</span><span><a href="http://www.ren21.net/status-of-renewables/global-status-report/" target="_blank">Renewables 2017 Global Status Report</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Photographs are available </span><span><a href="http://act.gp/2inpb2e" target="_blank">here</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>JP Agcaoili, Communications and Digital Manager, Greenpeace Southeast Asia (Philippines), email: juanpedro.agcaoili@greenpeace.org, tel. +639498891334</span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span>Kristin Casper, Litigation Counsel, Climate Justice and Liability Project, Greenpeace Canada (based in Toronto, email: kristin.casper@greenpeace.org, tel. +1 (416) 889-6604</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, </span><span>pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</span><span>, phone: </span><span>+31 (0) 20 718 2470</span><span> (available 24 hours)</span>&nbsp;</p>Fri, 20 Oct 2017 06:30:00 Zclimate changeother issuesShuk-Wah Chung3ad01210-becd-45f0-96a0-96c7664cf3efhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/23-countries-and-states-to-phase-out-coal-as-US432-billion-of-capital-leaves-the-industry/23 countries and states to phase out coal as US$432 billion of capital leaves the industryHong Kong, 18 October 2017 - Over a quarter of the 1,675 companies that owned or developed coal-fired power capacity since 2010 have entirely left the coal power business, according to new research from CoalSwarm and Greenpeace. This represents nearly 370 large coal-fired power plants - enough to power around six United Kingdoms - and equivalent to nearly half a trillion US dollars in assets retired or not developed [1].<p dir="ltr">While many generating companies go through this rapid makeover, the research also shows that a total of 23 countries, states and cities will have either phased out coal-fired power plants or set a timeline to do so by 2030.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Before 2014, no major jurisdiction had completely phased out coal,” said Lauri Myllyvirta, Energy Analyst at Greenpeace East Asia. “What we are witnessing now is the beginning of a major overhaul of our energy system - one that can address climate change and air pollution. Governments now need to speed up the shift to 100% renewables and ensure a just transition for workers and communities affected by the coal industry’s downfall.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">To date, six countries, states, provinces or cities have completely phased out coal power since 2014, and an additional 17 have announced a coal power phase-out date of 2030 or sooner. Three of the G7 economies, and a total of eight EU countries, have decided to phase out coal - the Netherlands joining the list only this month. Indonesia, the third largest builder of new coal power plants after India and China in recent years, also said it would not start more coal projects in its main grid.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Global investment in coal has crashed as a result of a dramatic fall in new projects in China and India, with money flowing increasingly toward lower-cost renewable energies,” said Myllyvirta.</p><p></p><p>The list of jurisdictions becoming coal-free includes the capitals of China and India. Both countries have dramatically curtailed investment in new coal plants in response to concerns over wasted resources in the wake of coal power overcapacity and falling utilisation rates, public outcries over high levels of air pollution, and ambitious clean energy targets.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Record amounts of coal-fired capacity were retired in the past two years, and the growing number of phase-out policies means the trend will accelerate. Improving competitiveness of clean energy, poor economics of coal, air pollution problems and efforts to tackle climate change have all played a key role in accelerating the demise of coal,” said Christine Shearer, Senior Researcher for CoalSwarm’s Global Coal Plant Tracker.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“While the progress in moving away from coal has been faster than expected, it needs to be accelerated urgently. Meeting the objectives of the Paris agreement requires all OECD countries to close their coal-fired power plants by 2030, so it’s high time for other countries, especially Germany, Japan and Southeast Asia, to follow this example,” said Shearer.</p><p></p><p>Despite President Trump’s rhetoric about reviving the coal industry, decisions to retire coal plant in the United States have continued in 2017 at the same rapid rate as the year before, with 54 units announcing retirement, a total generating capacity equal to all coal-fired power plants in Spain.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“In quite a few places such as Belgium, states in the US, and Scotland, it’s companies deciding to close their coal plants which is resulting in these jurisdictions becoming coal free. In the U.S., progress continues on the state level despite rhetoric from the Trump administration,” said Myllyvirta.</p><p></p><p>California, the biggest state economy in the US, is already coal-free and is actively pushing its neighboring states to reduce coal as well. Massachusetts is due to close its last coal-fired power plant this year and five other states - Connecticut, Hawaii, New York, Oregon and Washington - have phase-out dates.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Reports: "<a href="https://endcoal.org/2017/10/coal-phase-out-first-global-survey-of-companies-and-political-entities-exiting-coal/">Global Phase-Out: First Global Survey of Companies and Political Entities Exiting Coal</a>" and&nbsp;"<a href="http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/climate/2017/Global-Shift.pdf">Global Shift: Countries and Subnational Entities Phasing Out Existing Coal Power Plants and Shrinking the Proposed Coal Power Pipeline</a>"</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1] A typical coal-fired generating unit is 500 megawatts, or 0.5 gigawatts, in size, with most power stations having two or more such units. Based on that size unit, this represents 736 typical units or approximately 368 plants.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Of the 1,675 companies that have owned coal-fired power plants or pursued development of coal-fired power capacity since 2010, 448 companies,have exited the coal power business entirely. The estimated value of the coal-fired power plants shelved or cancelled by these companies since 2010 is US$432 billion (based on a regionally weighted global average of US$1172 per kW for new coal-fired power plant construction).</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Photos and Videos</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXQ9MH7">here</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Ted Nace, Director, CoalSwarm, +1 (510) 331-8743, email: ted@tednace.com</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Christine Shearer, Senior Researcher, CoalSwarm, email: shearerchristine@gmail.com</p>Wed, 18 Oct 2017 06:01:00 Zclimate changeTristan Tremschnigfa7f5d35-ecae-48f3-b310-16d1d3d4e82chttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Samsung-Huawei-and-Amazon-failing-Greenpeaces-green-electronics-guide/Samsung, Huawei and Amazon failing Greenpeace’s ‘green’ electronics guideSan Francisco, 17 October 2017 - Fairphone and Apple are ahead of brands such as Samsung, Huawei and Amazon, which are failing to take responsibility for their environmental footprint, according to Greenpeace USA's latest Guide to Greener Electronics.<p>Greenpeace USA scored 17 of the world’s leading tech companies based on their transparency, performance and advocacy efforts in three areas critical to putting the sector on a sustainable path: reduction of emissions through renewable energy, use of recycled materials, and elimination of hazardous chemicals.<br /><br />"Tech companies claim to be at the forefront of innovation, but their supply chains are stuck in the Industrial Age. We know they can change. Rather than fuelling climate change, these companies need to show the way forward, just as some companies like Google and Apple have with data centres run on renewables," said Gary Cook, Senior IT Campaigner at Greenpeace USA.<br /><br />Dell and HP follow Apple and Fairphone with a C+, while eleven companies, including Samsung, Huawei and Amazon, fall in the D and F range.<br /><br />Despite its central position as both the largest manufacturer of smartphones and one of the the largest suppliers of displays, Samsung manufacturing system heavily relies on fossil fuels. The company used more than 16,000 GWh of energy in 2016, with just 1% coming from renewables.<br /><br />Key findings include:</p><p></p><ul><p></p><li>Supply chains driving demand for dirty energy: Up to 80% of carbon emissions over a device’s lifetime &nbsp;occurs during manufacturing. While Apple, Google, and other internet companies are making progress transitioning their data centers to renewable energy, nearly all of the companies have yet to address the rapidly growing carbon footprint and dependence on dirty energy in their supply chains. Apple is the only company so far that has committed to 100% renewable power for its supply chain.</li><p></p><li>Planned obsolescence as a design feature: Apple, Microsoft, and Samsung are among the companies moving in the wrong direction on sustainable product design - many of their latest products are difficult to repair or upgrade. HP, Dell, and Fairphone are the notable exceptions to this trend, producing a growing number of products that are repairable and upgradable.</li><p></p><li>Lack of transparency on supply chain impacts: Most companies, including Amazon, Google, Huawei and the other Chinese brands Oppo, Vivo and Xiaomi, lack transparency on their suppliers, keeping the environmental footprint of their supply chain hidden from view.</li><p></p><li>Lack of transparency and monitoring of workplace chemicals: To protect worker health and safety, all companies need to identify and eliminate hazardous chemicals used in the production of their products, and improve worker health and safety due diligence. Apple, Dell, Google, HP and Microsoft are the only companies in the Guide that publish their list of substances that must be restricted in the manufacturing of their devices (MRSL).</li><p></p></ul><p></p><p>From 2006 to 2012, Greenpeace published the Guide with regularity, and as a result saw steady progress from companies to phase-out hazardous materials and make their devices more energy efficient. &nbsp;<br /><br />“It’s clear the impacts of the linear take-make-waste business model of device manufacturers extend beyond the concerns of e-waste. We need to see greater ambition, more transparency, and follow through from companies to address the environmental impacts of their enormous supply chains. The current model cannot be maintained,” said Cook.<br /><br />Greenpeace is challenging the IT sector to take responsibility for its rapidly increasing footprint on the planet by:</p><p></p><ul><p></p><li>shifting their supply chains to be renewably powered;</li><p></p><li>reducing the cycle of constant consumption of more minerals and other resources by designing long lasting products that use more recycled materials, and;</li><p></p><li>detox their products and their supply chain by finding alternatives to hazardous chemicals.</li><p></p></ul><p></p><p>ENDS<br /><br /><strong>Notes:<br /></strong><br />[1] The Guide to Greener Electronics can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/greenerguide">www.greenpeace.org/greenerguide</a><br /><br />[2]&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greenpeace.de/sites/www.greenpeace.de/files/publications/20161109_oeko_resource_efficency_final_full-report.pdf">Resource Efficiency in the ICT Sector,</a>&nbsp;Oeko-Institut e.V., 2016.<br /><br /><strong>Photos and Videos</strong>: <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJJT1MBE">here</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong><br /><br />Maria Elena De Matteo, Global Communications Strategist, Greenpeace East Asia, phone: +852-55749984, mariaelena.dematteo@greenpeace.org<br /><br />Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Tue, 17 Oct 2017 05:55:00 Zclimate changetoxicsTristan Tremschnig85c9154c-18c5-49e8-ba87-a09ce8852d1dhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Federal-Court-Dismisses-Racketeering-Case-Against-Greenpeace/Federal Court Dismisses Racketeering Case Against GreenpeaceSAN FRANCISCO, 16 October 2017 -- Today, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California dismissed all claims in the controversial case that major logging company Resolute Forest Products [2] filed against Greenpeace Inc., Greenpeace Fund, and Greenpeace International, Stand.earth and individual defendants, including claims under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) act.<p></p><p dir="ltr">The court’s decision sends a clear message to corporations that attacks on core democratic values like freedom of speech and legitimate advocacy on issues of public interest will not be tolerated. District Judge Jon S. Tigar wrote in his order dismissing the case that “the defendants’ speech constituted the expression of opinion, or different viewpoints that [are] a vital part of our democracy.” Noting that “Greenpeace’s publications at issue rely on scientific research or fact”, the judge added that “[t]he academy, and not the courthouse, is the appropriate place to resolve scientific disagreements of this kind.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Resolute will be allowed to amend its filing as a formality, but Greenpeace is confident that any such attempt will meet a similar fate.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace USA General Counsel Tom Wetterer said in response to the decision:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“We are pleased the court unequivocally threw out this attempt to abuse our legal system and silence legitimate criticism on matters of public concern. This is very positive news for all of us, for the values that we share, and for Canada’s boreal forest. Resolute’s claim that organizations and activists committed to the conservation of the forests were part of a criminal enterprise is absurd and a sad symptom of a wider assault on constitutional rights and democracy. The logging company’s allegations were a clear attempt to silence the voices that advocate for the environment. Recently, Energy Transfer Partners -- the oil company behind the Dakota Access Pipeline -- decided to follow a strikingly similar path [3] under the legal wing of none other than Trump’s go-to law firm. The similarities are apparent and this underhanded playbook targeting free speech should be a cause of real concern. We're grateful that the court has shown today it is a losing playbook, but that doesn't mean corporate bullies like ETP won't stop trying to use it.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Energy Transfer’s case repackages many of the spurious allegations and legal claims made against Greenpeace by the Kasowitz firm on behalf of Resolute. The decision on the Resolute suit should be a clear indication that Energy Transfer’s case has no future. Both are classic SLAPPs, or strategic lawsuits against public participation. These cases don’t seek justice. They intend to silence free speech through expensive, time-consuming litigation. This pattern of harassment by corporate bullies led by Trump’s go-to attorneys must be stopped in its tracks.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace USA Senior Forest Campaigner Daniel Brindis added:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The judge’s decision to dismiss the case affirms that Resolute’s divisive and bullying tactics are a waste of time and resources. It is time for Resolute to finally work with environmental organizations including Greenpeace to address their destructive forestry operations and forge a collaborative and sustainable path forward. Instead of spending more valuable resources to amend this lawsuit, Greenpeace hopes Resolute will finally be ready to work together to find solutions. Thousands in Canada and around the world have called for the protection of the forest, it’s time for Resolute to listen to them too. The world needs a healthy boreal forest and together we can develop long term sustainable solutions that respect the rights of Indigenous Peoples, protect local communities and ensure the survival of species at risk like the Woodland Caribou. ”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes to editors:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1] Click <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MTD-Decision-GP-RFP-1.pdf">here</a> to download a copy of the order.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[2] On May 31, 2016 Resolute Forest Products filed a CAD$300 million lawsuit under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) in the United States District Court for Southern Georgia, against Greenpeace International, Greenpeace, Inc., Greenpeace Fund, Inc., STAND.earth (formerly ForestEthics), and five individual staff members of these independent organizations. The case was transferred to Northern California on May 16, 2017 when Resolute failed to demonstrate that the case should be heard in Georgia.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">This is Resolute’s second lawsuit against Greenpeace. In 2013, the company filed a CAD$7 million defamation case against Greenpeace Canada and two staff members in Ontario, which is still pending. Click <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/resolutelawsuits/">here</a> for more information about the existing legal cases between Resolute Forest Products and defendants, or copy this to your browser: <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/resolutelawsuits/">http://www.greenpeace.org/resolutelawsuits/</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[3] On August 22, 2017 Energy Transfer Partners filed a multi-million dollar lawsuit under under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). Click <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/global-warming/greenpeace-v-energy-transfer-partners-facts/">here</a> for more information about the existing legal cases between Resolute Forest Products and defendants, or copy this to your browser: <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/global-warming/greenpeace-v-energy-transfer-partners-facts/">http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/global-warming/greenpeace-v-energy-transfer-partners-facts/</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Valerie Holford, <a href="mailto:valerieholford@starpower.net">valerieholford@starpower.net</a> +1 202 365 5336</p><p></p><p>Travis Nichols, <a href="mailto:tnichols@greenpeace.org">tnichols@greenpeace.org</a> <span>+1&nbsp;</span>206 802 8498</p><p></p><div><p></p><div>Greenpeace International Press Desk,&nbsp;pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</div><p></p></div>Tue, 17 Oct 2017 00:06:00 Zforestsrfield76c6fbcc-3f89-44a4-90f1-502a5b9a918ehttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Greenpeace-activists-block-Swedish-pulp-mill-wiping-critical-forests-off-the-face-of-the-earth/Greenpeace activists block Swedish pulp mill wiping critical forests off the face of the earthTimrå, 16 October 2017 – Greenpeace Nordic activists have blocked the entrances to a major Swedish pulp mill that supplies Essity, the world’s second-largest tissue producer. Forty activists from seven countries placed a shipping container at the entrance road to the mill, where trucks deliver timber.<p></p><p dir="ltr">Train tracks leading to the mill have also been blocked, as well as the road used for transporting pulp out from the mill. Activists have hung a 15 x 20 metres banner on the mill with a message to Essity: ‘Stop wiping away forests’. Today’s activities are taking place in locations where there is no inconvenience to public traffic.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The SCA Östrand pulp mill in Timrå sources its wood from logging companies that are destroying the last critical forest landscapes in northern Sweden. These areas have been identified by the Swedish authorities as having ‘particularly high ecological preservation values’.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Today’s peaceful protest, with Greenpeace Nordic activists, follows the release of a Greenpeace International report,<a href="http://act.gp/2fo7Hye" target="_blank"> Wiping Away the Boreal</a>, which reveals how Essity is driving the destruction of critical parts of Europe’s Great Northern Forest, in Sweden, Finland and Russia.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace Nordic Great Northern Forest project leader, Erika Bjureby said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“It is insane that Essity is allowing these beautiful and critical areas of forests to be destroyed to make toilet tissue brands. The company needs to stop its pulp suppliers wiping critical forests off the face of the earth or stop doing business with them. We need to stop chopping trees here now, before the Great Northern Forest is logged into pieces.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace has launched an online petition calling on Essity to clean up its supply chain and stop wiping away the forests.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Erika Bjureby added:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Over 200,000 individuals have already signed the petition to defend the unique parts of the Great Northern Forest. Now Essity needs to hear the voice of the people and their customers: stop logging before the critical forest landscapes Great Northern Forest become so fragmented that the beautiful biodiversity is lost.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Photo and video:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Images of the critical forest landscapes logged by Essity’s supplier SCA in Jämtland, Sweden: <a href="http://act.gp/2g7voek" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2g7voek</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Images of peaceful protest at the pulp mill:<a href="http://act.gp/2ggLs1h" target="_blank"> http://act.gp/2ggLs1h</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes to editors:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Report Wiping away the Boreal:<a href="http://act.gp/2fo7Hye" target="_blank"> http://act.gp/2fo7Hye</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace petition: www.greatnorthernforest.org/essity</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Juha Aromaa, Communications lead for the Great Northern Forest campaign, +358 50 369 6202, juha.aromaa@greenpeace.org</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Mon, 16 Oct 2017 08:35:00 Zforestsawillsona251da45-2bfd-49c9-9eca-67cf3a47555dhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Fukushima-survivor-submits-evidence-to-UN-over-Japanese-government-human-rights-abuses-/Fukushima survivor submits evidence to UN over Japanese government human rights abuses Geneva, 12 October 2017 - Fukushima survivor Ms. Sonoda will testify today on the ongoing human rights abuses of Fukushima victims, and the ever-present risk nuclear power plants pose to the communities that live near them, at the United Nations Human Rights Council. <p dir="ltr"><span>Ms.&nbsp; Sonoda was forced her to flee her home in order to protect her then 10-year-old son in the aftermath of the nuclear disaster in Fukushima. Since then, she and other mothers have been standing up to fight for themselves and their children.</span></p><p></p><p>“I want to tell the world we haven’t had our human rights respected since the disaster. I don’t want this to happen to anyone else in any other countries,” said Sonoda. “I know so many mothers who have been suffering and struggling as a result of the nuclear disaster, because the Japanese government and TEPCO won’t admit to their responsibilities.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>Despite residents’ opposition and the fact that there are areas in Fukushima Prefecture that remain too contaminated for people to safely live [1], the Japanese government has moved forward with lifting evacuation orders and pushing for nuclear restarts.[2] Evacuees from &nbsp;contaminated areas that were not under a mandatory evacuation order lost housing support in March 2017 [3]. In March 2018, former residents from those areas will lose what remains of their compensation.</p><p></p><p>Since the Fukushima nuclear accident, the Japanese government and global nuclear interest organisations such as the IAEA have sought to understate the impacts of the disaster on the nuclear industry at the expense of its victims [4].</p><p></p><p>“The Japanese Government’s resettlement policies not only fail to meet obligations under multiple human rights treaties, but also clearly violate Japan’s own domestic law regarding the treatment of people impacted by the nuclear disaster,” said Kendra Ulrich, Senior Global Energy Campaigner for Greenpeace Japan.</p><p></p><p>“Although most Fukushima nuclear evacuees meet the criteria for consideration as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), the Japanese government has refused to acknowledge them as such and ignored international frameworks for their protection.”[5]</p><p></p><p>Ms. Sonoda speaks today not only on behalf of herself, but for all those impacted by the Fukushima nuclear accident and the Japanese government’s response to it. Global nuclear interests have been involved in influencing the Japanese government’s resettlement policies and what happens to Fukushima impacted peoples has implications for all those who are living near nuclear reactors the world over.</p><p></p><p>People like Jinseop Lee, who lives in ​G​ijang, South Korea, which has eight nuclear power plants within a 10km radius. Mr. Lee and his family have serious health problems and they worry about the nuclear reactors nearby. “We want to debunk the myth that nuclear power plants are 'safe',” said Mr. Lee. “Local people don’t really know what nuclear power plants are, so nuclear operators cause and use the conflicts among the local people to create a myth of safety. Nuclear phaseout must be achieved in our generation.”</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace Japan is calling on the Japanese government to rectify the issues with its troubled nuclear reconstruction policy and to respect Fukushima survivors’ treaty-protected human rights, including ensuring accurate and transparent information is accessible, survivors have the ability to fully participate in policy decision-making that affects their resettlement and health, and adequate continued compensation so people may freely choose whether they will remain evacuated or return to their former homes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[ENDS]</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes to Editors:</strong></p><p></p><div>Photos can be found&nbsp;<a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXZMNJ3">here</a></div><p></p><p></p><div>[1] “<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/japan/Global/japan/pdf/NRN_FINweb4.pdf">No Return to Normal”, 2017</a></div><p></p><p></p><div>[2 <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-japan-nuclear-tepco/japan-regulator-grants-safety-approval-to-tepcos-first-reactor-restart-since-fukushima-idUSKCN1C908B">Japan’s regulator grants safety approval to TEPCO’s first reactor restart</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;See also: <a href="http://large.stanford.edu/courses/2013/ph241/mori1/docs/NAIIC_report_hi_res10.pdf">The Official Report of the Fukushima Nuclear Accident Investigation Commission</a>; The National Diet of Japan.</div><p></p><p></p><div>[3] <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/mar/10/japan-fukushima-nuclear-disaster-evacuees-forced-return-home-radiation">Fukushima evacuees face 'forced' return as subsidies withdrawn</a></div><p></p><p></p><div>[4] <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/japan/Global/japan/pdf/IAEA%20analysis%20by%20GP%2020150528.pdf">The IAEA Fukushima Daiichi Accident Summary Report: A preliminary analysis</a></div><p></p><p></p><div>[5] <a href="https://europa.eu/capacity4dev/public-environment-climate/blog/returning-home-after-fukushima-displacement-nuclear-disaster-and-international-guidelines-inter">Returning home after Fukushima: Displacement from a nuclear disaster and international guidelines for internally displaced persons</a></div><p></p><p><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p class="p1">Chisato Jono, Communications Officer, Greenpeace Japan: chisato.jono<a href="mailto:poul.bonke.justesen@greenpeace.org"><span class="s1">@greenpeace.org</span></a>,&nbsp;&nbsp;Mobile: +81 80(6558) 4446, +41 77 (9590) 537 (For Switzerland use until 13th)</p><p></p><p class="p2">Kendra Ulrich, Senior Global Energy Campaigner, Greenpeace Japan:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kendra.ulrich@greenpeace.org"><span class="s1">kendra.ulrich@greenpeace.org</span></a>&nbsp;Mobile: +81 90 (6478) 5408</p><p></p><p class="p2">Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Thu, 12 Oct 2017 07:00:00 Znuclearjperrye211d239-4ce2-4eb0-93cb-60efda46fea8http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Greenpeace-as-part-of-Break-Free-From-Plastic-presents-a-new-way-of-exposing-plastic-pollution-offenders/Greenpeace as part of Break Free From Plastic presents a new way of exposing plastic pollution offendersMalta, 5 October 2017 – A four-by-four meter dragon spitting single-use plastic was installed in front of the 'Our Ocean 2017' conference to highlight the global crisis of plastic pollution. The Break Free From Plastic movement is demanding that the main culprits, including fast-moving consumer goods companies such as Nestlé, Unilever, Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, and PepsiCo, stop producing single-use plastic and that policy-makers legislate against it. The ‘Our Ocean 2017’ conference brings together representatives of governments, civil society, science, finance and businesses from around the world to discuss ocean protection. This year they are discussing marine litter.<p dir="ltr">Up to 12 million tonnes of plastic, often single-use items including packaging, &nbsp;enter the sea from land every year. With plastic production expected to increase, and waste management and recycling schemes failing to keep up, the problem needs to be tackled by the brands who are putting all this single-use plastic in circulation. ‘Our Ocean 2017’ is an opportunity for countries and companies around the world to start focusing on how to phase out single-use plastics instead of end-of-pipe solutions such as recycling or waste disposal.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The Break Free From Plastic movement, including Greenpeace, is calling on local communities across the globe to join the movement and use the brand audit methodology when participating in beach cleanups to help identify the main global polluters. An&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Nestle-Unilever-PG-among-worst-offenders-for-plastic-pollution-in-Philippines-in-beach-audit/">eight-day beach clean-up or “brand audit”</a>&nbsp;was successfully carried out in the Philippines involving a large number of &nbsp;volunteers this September. Now, brand audits have started in other countries, including Croatia, Spain and the Netherlands. Early results suggest globally recognised brands from global fast-moving consumer goods companies such as Nestlé, Unilever, Procter &amp; Gamble, Colgate-Palmolive, PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola are among the top polluters. All data and details of the methodology can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="http://plasticpolluters.org/">http://plasticpolluters.org</a>&nbsp;[2].</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The newly devised brand audit methodology, tested in several countries, is revealing that the worst plastic polluters are some of the biggest companies in the world -- those are clearly the ones who need to take responsibility”, said Dr. Sandra Schöttner, Oceans &amp; Plastics Campaigner, Greenpeace Germany. “Producing and using absurd amounts of single-use plastics day after day is clearly devastating for our oceans. The only solution is to stop this practice by developing &nbsp;alternative delivery models. We will never be able to recycle our way out of this crisis. Both governments and companies have to start phasing out the worst single-use plastics”.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">EU institutions and Member States are currently revising their waste legislation and the Commission will publish a Strategy on Plastics in the Circular Economy by the end of 2017. According to Delphine Levi Alvares, coordinator of BFFP Europe, “This is a unique opportunity to address marine plastic pollution at source and help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. We call on the EU Commission and Member States to agree an EU wide, binding marine litter reduction target and take legal measures to reduce significantly the use of single-use plastics and microplastics in the forthcoming Plastics Strategy. Indeed, the EU has placed prevention and reduction of waste at the top of their waste management hierarchy; our ocean survival depends on that commitment being transformed into action."</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace is part of BFFP, a global movement envisioning a future free from plastic pollution. &nbsp;“Since its launch in September 2016, over 900 non-governmental organizations from across the world have joined the movement to demand massive reduction in single-use plastics and lasting solutions to the plastic pollution crisis. These organizations share the common values of environmental protection and social justice, which guide their work at the community level and represent a global, unified vision,” &nbsp;said Von Hernandez, global coordinator of BFFP.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Beside Greenpeace, BFFP members include Zero Waste Europe, Surfrider Foundation, Oceana, Story of Stuff, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) and Seas at Risk, among many others.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[ENDS]</span>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Notes to the editors:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Photos can be accessed here:&nbsp;<span><a title="http://act.gp/2kqwlU4" href="http://act.gp/2kqwlU4" target="_blank">http://act.gp/2kqwlU4</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[1] Break Free From Plastic:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/">https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">[2] Methodology and detailed results of audit: &nbsp;<a href="http://plasticpolluters.org/">http://plasticpolluters.org</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">For more information:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Sandra Schoettner<br />Oceans &amp; Plastics Campaigner<br />Phone: +49 (0) 1515 690 4445<br />E-Mail:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sschoett@greenpeace.org">sschoett@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Mihaela Bogeljic<br />Press Officer&nbsp;<br />Phone: +385 (0) 92 2929 265<br />E-Mail:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mihaela.bogeljic@greenpeace.org">mihaela.bogeljic@greenpeace.</a>org</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Matthew Franklin<br />Break Free From Plastic<br />European Communication Officer<br />Phone: +44 7923 3738 31<br />Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:matt@breakfreefromplastic.org">matt@breakfreefromplastic.org</a></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours),&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></p>Thu, 05 Oct 2017 19:29:00 Zoceansrfield316a5b15-a14f-47e2-97f1-f441eb475326http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Nestle-Unilever-PG-among-worst-offenders-for-plastic-pollution-in-Philippines-in-beach-audit/Nestlé, Unilever, P&G among worst offenders for plastic pollution in Philippines in beach auditManila, 22 September 2017 - A week-long beach clean up has exposed the companies most responsible for plastic pollution after an audit of plastic waste conducted on Freedom Island, a critical wetland habitat and Ramsar site [1] spanning 30 hectares in Manila Bay - one of the worst areas for plastic pollution in the Philippines.<p dir="ltr">The Greenpeace Philippines and #breakfreefromplastic movement audit, the first of its kind in the country, revealed that Nestlé, Unilever, and Indonesian company PT Torabika Mayora are the top three contributors of plastic waste discovered in the area, contributing to the 1.88 million metric tonnes of mismanaged plastic wastes in the Philippines per year[2].</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“When we throw something away, there is no ‘away’. The Philippines is the third biggest source of plastic ocean pollution because global corporations are locking us into cheap, disposable plastics, rather than innovating and finding solutions,” said Abigail Aguilar, Campaigner for Greenpeace Philippines.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“These corporations are the missing piece in the global fight against plastic pollution. Citizens are burdened with the social and environmental impacts of plastic waste, rather than those that are responsible,” Aguilar added.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>During the clean up, Greenpeace volunteers and coalition partners from the </span><span>#breakfreefromplastic</span><span> Movement[3], found items ranging from styrofoam to footwear, along with single-use plastics such as bags, plastic bottle labels, and straws. A total of 54,260 pieces of plastic waste were collected during the audit, with most products being sachets.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Developing countries, such as the Philippines, run on a “sachet economy”, which encourages the practice of buying Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCGs) in small quantities. This drives market and profit share for most companies by making it more accessible to people with limited incomes [4]. &nbsp;However, low-value single-use sachets are not collected by waste pickers and usually end up in landfills or scattered indiscriminately as litter in the streets or marine debris.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“It’s time these companies stop business-as-usual and use their resources to innovate and redesign their packaging and delivery solutions,” Aguilar said. “They could for instance practice extended producer responsibility [5] where companies substitute non-reusable and non-recyclable products with new systems, such as refillables - prevention instead of end-of-pipe waste management. In the long term they’ll see this will yield strong environmental and economic benefits.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The Philippines ranks as the third worst polluter into the world’s oceans, with China as number one. In a study, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia are also in the list of top 10 countries[6] with mismanaged plastic waste.</span><span> While </span><span>their economies are growing, this new-found spending power has led to ‘exploding demand for consumer products that has not yet been met with a commensurate waste-management infrastructure.’[7]</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>ASEAN countries, due to their lengthy coastlines and high plastic usage, are some of the primary sources of marine plastics globally. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) estimates that the cost to the tourism, fishing and shipping industries was US$1.2 billion in the region alone.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace conducted the plastic waste brand audit as part of the </span><span>#breakfreefromplastic</span><span> movement and its member organisations Mother Earth Foundation, Ecowaste Coalition, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, and Health Care without Harm.</span></p><p></p><p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes to the editors:</strong></p><p></p><p>Detailed results of the audit can be accessed at <a href="http://www.plasticpolluters.org" target="_blank">www.plasticpolluters.org</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Photos and videos can be accessed </span><a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/C.aspx?VP3=SearchResult&amp;ALID=27MZIFJXDH40Q" target="_blank"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[1] Annotated list of wetlands of international importance. </span><span><a href="https://rsis.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/rsiswp_search/exports/Ramsar-Sites-annotated-summary-Philippines.pdf?1505801031" target="_blank">https://rsis.ramsar.org/sites/default/files/rsiswp_search/exports/Ramsar-Sites-annotated-summary-Philippines.pdf?1505801031</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[2] [6] Jambeck, Jenna R., Roland Geyer, Chris Wilcox, Theodore R. Siegler, Miriam Perryman, Anthony Andrady, Ramani Narayan, and Kara Lavender Law. “Plastic Waste Inputs from Land into the Ocean.”</span><a href="http://science.sciencemag.org/content/sci/347/6223/768.full.pdf?ijkey=BXtBaPzbQgagE&amp;keytype=ref&amp;siteid=sci" target="_blank"><span>&nbsp;</span><span>http://science.sciencemag.org/content/sci/347/6223/768.full.pdf?ijkey=BXtBaPzbQgagE&amp;keytype=ref&amp;siteid=sci</span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[3] https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[4] Sachets help low income communities but are a waste nightmare. </span><span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/sachet-packaging-low-income-communities-waste-nightmare" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/sachet-packaging-low-income-communities-waste-nightmare</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[5] Extended Producer Responsibility. </span><span><a href="http://www.oecd.org/env/tools-evaluation/extendedproducerresponsibility.htm" target="_blank">http://www.oecd.org/env/tools-evaluation/extendedproducerresponsibility.htm</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[7] Ocean Conservancy and the McKinsey Center for Business and Environment. </span><span><a href="http://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/sustainability-and-resource-productivity/our-insights/saving-the-ocean-from-plastic-waste" target="_blank">“Stemming the tide: Land-based strategies for a plastic-free environment.”</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[8] These are the companies that have been found most responsible for plastic pollution on Freedom Island:</span></p><p></p><ol><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Nestle</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Unilever</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>PT Torabika Mayora</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Universal Robina Corporation</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Procter &amp; Gamble</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Nutri-Asia</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Monde Nissin</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Zesto</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Colgate Palmolive</span></p><p></p></li><p></p><li dir="ltr"><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Liwayway</span></p><p></p></li><p></p></ol><p></p><p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Angelica Carballo Pago, Media Campaigner, Greenpeace Southeast Asia - Philippines</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Email: angelica.pago@greenpeace.org , phone +63 949 8891332</span></p><p></p><p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), </span><span><a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></span></p>Fri, 22 Sep 2017 03:14:00 Zoceansshchung14714d65-0598-4b48-b49b-366f9c9ee74chttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/New-report-breaks-the-myth-of-fast-fashions-so-called-circular-economy---Greenpeace/New report breaks the myth of fast fashion's so-called 'circular economy' - GreenpeaceMilan, 18 September 2017 – At the opening of Milan Fashion Week today, Greenpeace Italy is hosting a debate with representatives of small and medium-sized fashion companies from different parts of Europe who are taking steps towards “slowing fashion”. “Slowing fashion” is a model that does not compromise on ethical, social and environmental values and involves customers, rather than encouraging them to over-consume ever-changing trends.<p>Greenpeace’s new report, “<a title="http://act.gp/2y8xjpX" href="http://act.gp/2y8xjpX">Fashion at the crossroads</a>”, presented today in Milan, shows examples of “slowing the loop” solutions as alternatives to the current material-intensive business model. For the first time ever, an open database of nearly 400 entries, put together under a coherent framework, will help design more sustainable scenarios for the fashion industry. [1]<br /><br />“A ‘circular economy’ is the latest meme being used across the EU and worldwide, but behind this nice phrase lies the industry’s fantasy that circularity can fix a material-intensive system; selling the promises of 100% recyclability which is unlikely to come true,” said Chiara Campione, Greenpeace Italy Senior Corporate Strategist.<br /><br />Greenpeace warns that an effective six year-long effort to reduce hazardous chemicals from the textile global supply could be ruined by a premature ‘circular economy’ where recycling happens before detoxing processes and materials occur, while the overall growing intensity of production continues to pose a serious threat to the environment.<br /><br />“Our aim is to provide a critical response to the premature and incomplete ‘circular economy’ promoted by large global brands. The Pulse report, recently presented at the Copenhagen Fashion Summit, envisions a so-called ‘circular’ future for the sector that would rely even more on environmentally harmful polyester and still seeks growth in material output without questioning the overproduction, overconsumption and the subsequent decrease in the quality and longevity of our clothes,” Campione said.<br /><br />“Slowing the flow of materials - and detoxing - is the prerequisite to closing the loop,” said Campione. “Today we have given the floor to some pioneers of this vision who are engaged in five essential areas of intervention: design for longevity, design for reduced impacts, design for recycling, end-of-life systems and alternative business models”.<br /><br />Representatives from Vaude, Nudie Jeans, Consorzio Italiano Detox, Orange Fiber, L’Herbe Rouge and Kleiderei have been the speakers at today’s podium debate but the field is open to innovations from any company that wants to extend the lifespan of clothing through quality, design, mindset change and repair services and in general offer new alternative business models. In the meantime, Greenpeace calls on public authorities to adopt policies for producer responsibility which require mandatory take-back, preventing disposal and rewarding design improvements.<br /><br />[ENDS]<br /><br /><strong>Notes for Editors<br /></strong><br />[1] The report, published Greenpeace Germany, can be <a title="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/detox/2017/Fashion-at-the-Crossroads.pdf" href="http://act.gp/2y8xjpX">accessed here</a>. The overview is <a title="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/Global/international/publications/detox/2017/Fashion-at-the-Crossroads-Overview.pdf" href="http://act.gp/2y8xkdv">available here</a>.<br /><br />[2] With its Detox campaign, Greenpeace has been fighting successfully for a cleaner textile industry, committing 80 global textile brands and suppliers to ban hazardous chemicals from their supply chain by 2020. However, to protect our planet and our health around the globe we need to go a step further. We need to change the way we consume clothing and tackle consumption habits, unsustainable lifestyles and seek for happiness in places other than shopping malls.<br /><br /><strong>Media contacts:<br /></strong><br />Gabriele Salari, Greenpeace Italy, gabriele.salari@greenpeace.org +39 342 5532207</p><p></p><div>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</div>Mon, 18 Sep 2017 08:00:00 ZtoxicsTristan Tremschnigcf98a80b-0802-43a7-8e43-7c7e593f3b76http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/clean-air-activists-flash-mob-worlds-largest-auto-show/100 clean air activists flash mob world’s largest auto show Frankfurt, 14 September 2017 – Following German Chancellor, Angela Merkel’s opening tour of the IAA international auto show today, 100 Greenpeace Germany activists staged a performance to demand protection from the health impacts of diesel pollution. Dressed as sick patients, peaceful protestors gathered in silence in one of the exhibition halls and staged a theatrical performance. Later, they burst into a coughing fit and they left behind their breathing masks at the stands of car manufacturers.<p>Greenpeace Germany aims to highlight that, while the car industry at the IAA is announcing the launch of many new electric car models over the coming years, it still intends to focus on selling cars with diesel and petrol engines for years to come. Cars with combustion engines have grave implications for people’s health.</p><p></p><p>Diesel cars are the main source of nitrogen dioxide (NO<sub>2</sub>) in cities. The toxic gas causes respiratory diseases like asthma and threatens the health of children and elderly, in particular. A study commissioned by Greenpeace Germany has shown that even a small increase of 10 micrograms per m<sup>3</sup> raises the likelihood of asthma in children by 15% on average. [1] According to the European Environment Agency, NO<sub>2 </sub>causes 68,000 premature deaths per year in the EU. [2]</p><p></p><p>Despite apparently having “understood the message”, car company executives still talk about diesel engines being “essential” and “clean” and are still presenting numerous large diesel SUVs and limousines at this year’s IAA as a sign of their continued commitment to dirty and health-threatening technology.</p><p></p><p>“Adding an electric option to each model is not enough,” said Andree Boehling, Greenpeace Germany Transport Expert. “What’s really needed is a commitment to put an end to the production of polluting cars fuelled by diesel and petrol.”</p><p></p><p>While diesel cars are getting cleaner on paper, the air in cities remains dirty. Real life emissions are still much higher than those under official testing conditions. Tests by the International Council on Clean Transportation ICCT have shown that even Euro 6 diesel cars have emissions that are on average still nearly five times over the legal limit. [3] <br /><br />“Diesel cars are as appropriate in inner cities as smoking areas in a hospital,“ Boehling continued. “No one should be fooled by the ‘clean diesel’ claims made at this show, manufacturers still sell millions of diesel cars that are a threat to our health. The diesel car must disappear and European governments must hold car companies accountable.“ [4]</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Images</strong></p><p></p><p>Images will be uploaded <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX8XTG9">here</a> as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>For more information on photos/videos, you can contact:<br />Photos: +49 40 30618 376; Video: +49 175 1102036</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes to editors</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] The study in German as well as a short Greenpeace briefing based on the study can be found <a href="https://www.greenpeace.org.uk/reports/no2-exposure/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>[2] The European Environmental Agency, Air quality in Europe Report 2016 can be read <a href="https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/air-quality-in-europe-2016" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>[3] The ICCT press release about the testing results can be read <a href="http://www.theicct.org/news/road-tested-sep2017-press-release" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[4] In 2016, 49.9% of vehicle registrations were diesel and only 1.1% were electric in the EU15 according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association.</p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts</strong></p><p></p><p>Gregor Kessler, Press Officer, Greenpeace Germany +49 151 72702918; <a href="mailto:gregor.kessler@greenpeace.org">gregor.kessler@greenpeace.org</a></p><p></p><p>Benjamin Stephan, Greenpeace Germany Transport Expert:; +49 151 57208151; benjamin.stephan@greenpeace.org<br /><br /><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours),&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></p>Thu, 14 Sep 2017 13:14:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hoog364fb6aa-570a-459e-9d45-c9c8bd474e61http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/auto-show-protest-report-launch-greenpeace-germany/Protests against car manufacturers as new report calls for end to combustion enginesFrankfurt, 12 September 2017 – On the opening day of the world’s largest International Motor Show (IAA), 10 Greenpeace Germany activists peacefully protested against auto industry practices that harm both the climate and people’s health with a smoking VW car installation. Protestors held banners reading, “The oil age is ending“. Greenpeace is demanding a sustainable transport system of cleaner, smaller and shared electric cars. At the motor show, manufacturers exhibit several heavy diesel and petrol models this year - an indication of the wrong direction that the industry is headed.<p>“The car industry is on a collision course with action on climate climate change,” said Greenpeace Germany transport expert, Andree Böhling. “The transport sector will soon have to do without oil. Only manufacturers that rapidly switch to developing clean and efficient alternatives will survive this transition.”</p><p></p><p>A new study by British transport expert Robin Hickman, commissioned by Greenpeace Germany, examines the ecological and social impact of private cars running on combustion engine. The report titled, “Why the Automobile Has No Future“ outlines how private petrol and diesel cars - and the massive infrastructure they require - emit too much CO<sub>2</sub> and waste that exceed the planet’s boundaries and cause thousands of premature deaths - from accidents to pollution - every single day. [1]</p><p></p><p>Amidst a growing number of announcements from governments banning the sales of new fossil fuel powered cars by 2025-2040, many traditional car makers refuse to embrace the change. [2] [3]</p><p></p><p>This year’s show is being snubbed by a dozen important, progressive car companies, including Tesla (which is only producing electric cars) and Nissan (whose Leaf is the most successful electric car to date).</p><p></p><p>ENDS<br /><br /> <br /> <strong>Notes to editors:</strong><br /> <br /> [1] Link to original report: <a href="http://gpurl.de/ma60U">http://gpurl.de/ma60U</a> and to summary briefing based on report: <a href="http://bit.ly/2wlcVRj">http://bit.ly/2wlcVRj</a></p><p></p><p>[2] In particular, German car manufacturers appear to embrace the switch to cleaner alternatives at a much slower pace than what air pollution related health warnings and the climate imperative would require. Even after the ‘dieselgate’ scandal, Europe’s biggest car maker, Volkswagen, has continued its strong lobbying activity at the EU level, and has been accused of trying to block an EU push for electric cars. Further revelations suggest that Volkswagen has been colluding with Daimler and BMW to cut corners on key emissions technologies which resulted in much higher emissions. The company plans to increase its sales share of electric cars to only 25% by 2025, leaving three out of four cars to run on oil – something incompatible with the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate change.<strong><br /> <br /> </strong>[3]&nbsp;<a href="http://money.cnn.com/2017/07/26/autos/countries-that-are-banning-gas-cars-for-electric/index.html">Norway</a>: 2025, <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2017/07/26/autos/countries-that-are-banning-gas-cars-for-electric/index.html">India</a>: 2030, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-britain-scotland-autos/scotland-aims-to-phase-out-new-petrol-diesel-cars-by-2032-idUSKCN1BG1ZU">Scotland</a>: 3032, <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=2&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiKrKTI_pXWAhUnL8AKHSr6AgcQFgguMAE&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.reuters.com%2Farticle%2Fus-climatechange-france-idUSKBN19R0VZ&amp;usg=AFQjCNEoK4vTDOsA92_eFT-gTTG16LnGrw">France</a>: 2040, <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=1&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiKrKTI_pXWAhUnL8AKHSr6AgcQFggmMAA&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.reuters.com%2Farticle%2Fus-britain-autos-idUSKBN1AB0U5&amp;usg=AFQjCNFxrzKtAHyl9pwcMjMTOa1zoapyvw">UK</a>: 2040<br /> <br /> <strong>Further information</strong></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.spiegel.de/auto/aktuell/iaa-2017-warum-elf-hersteller-nicht-zur-messe-kommen-a-1166157.html">http://www.spiegel.de/auto/aktuell/iaa-2017-warum-elf-hersteller-nicht-zur-messe-kommen-a-1166157.html</a></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-34324772">http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-34324772</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://lobbyfacts.eu/representative/b2b3bd69057b4cd38718a8c563dc0da9/volkswagen-aktiengesellschaft">https://lobbyfacts.eu/representative/b2b3bd69057b4cd38718a8c563dc0da9/volkswagen-aktiengesellschaft</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/apr/28/vw-and-shell-try-to-block-eu-push-for-cleaner-cars">https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/apr/28/vw-and-shell-try-to-block-eu-push-for-cleaner-cars</a></p><p></p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/25/business/diesel-emissions-volkswagen-bmw-mercedes.html">https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/25/business/diesel-emissions-volkswagen-bmw-mercedes.html</a></p><p></p><p><br /> <strong>Contacts: </strong></p><p></p><p>Andree Böhling, transport expert,&nbsp;Greenpeace Germany.&nbsp;Mobile: +49-151-18053382, andree.boehling@greenpeace.de</p><p></p><p>Gregor Kessler, Greenpeace Germany,&nbsp;Press officer. Mobile: +49-151-72702918, gregor.kessler@greenpeace.de</p><p></p><p><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours),&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></p>Tue, 12 Sep 2017 12:14:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hoog4c71a6c3-8ce6-49a5-8325-3c531b5ea8f7http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Totals-application-to-drill-near-the-Amazon-Reef-rejected/Total’s application to drill near the Amazon Reef rejectedBrasília, August 29th - Brazil's Environmental Agency (Ibama) today rejected the application for a license to drill in the mouth of the Amazon Basin by the French company Total (operating in a joint venture with BP). This is an important step towards defending the Amazon Reef, a unique and largely unexplored ecosystem. Total's closest block is only 8km away from the Reef.<p></p><p><a href="http://www.ibama.gov.br/informes/1176-ibama-rejeita-estudo-para-exploracao-de-petroleo-na-foz-do-amazonas" target="_blank">In a statement published today</a>, Ibama’s President, Suely Araujo, said that Total had not provided adequate information about the environmental impact of the project, making it impossible to grant the license. [1] The company admits in their own Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) that there is a <a href="http://energydesk.greenpeace.org/2017/07/04/amazon-reef-bp-total-oil-spill-risk/" target="_blank">30% probability of oil reaching the Reef in case of a spill</a>.<br /><br />Among the many flaws on Total´s Environmental Impact Assessment, Ibama listed, the oil dispersion modeling and <a href="http://energydesk.greenpeace.org/2017/08/18/total-amazon-reef-oil-report/">potential cross border risks to French Guiana</a>, Suriname, Guyana, Venezuela and Caribbean archipelagos. The note also highlights the lack of information about possible impacts to the welfare of mammals, turtles and birds that live in the region.<br /><br />The company still has another chance to send additional documentation as requested by Ibama. “This will be the third and last time that the Agency is willing to allow Total to provide adequate information about the environmental impact of the project. If Total does not adequately address the outstanding requests from the technical team, the licensing process <a href="http://www.ibama.gov.br/informes/1176-ibama-rejeita-estudo-para-exploracao-de-petroleo-na-foz-do-amazonas">will be finally archived,</a>" said Suely Araujo, Ibama’s president.<br /><br />On Ibama’s decision, Helena Spiritus, Greenpeace Brazil Energy Campaigner said:<br /><br />“After two years and multiple unanswered questions, Total has failed to meet the demands of the regulator, Ibama. They have shown they are incompetent and not fit to drill anywhere near the Amazon Reef. Ibama shouldn’t give them another chance to threaten this precious ecosystem.”<br /><br />“The only right decision by Total now is to give up their plans to drill at the Amazon mouth, instead of trying to find ways to convince authorities to approve this risky project, rejected by science, local communities and by the Brazilian Environmental Agency.”<br /><br />More than 1.2 million of people all around the world have called Total and BP to cancel their plans to drill for oil near the Amazon Reef.<br /><br />[ENDS]</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes to editors:</strong></p><p></p><p>Photo and video from the Amazon reef available here:&nbsp;<a href="http://act.gp/2tHOMHQ" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://act.gp/2tHOMHQ&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1504113762635000&amp;usg=AFQjCNE56S8tgRcgs1iVqF4-m3VxGmAztw">http://act.gp/2tHOMHQ</a><br /><br /><strong>Media contacts:<br /></strong><br />Thais Herrero, media officer, Greenpeace Brazil, + 55 11 982 726885,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thais.herrero@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">thais.herrero@greenpeace.org</a><br /><br />Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours),&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org" target="_blank">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a></p>Tue, 29 Aug 2017 19:24:00 Zoceansclimate changeTristan Tremschnigc950ef5f-1c62-401a-b222-c275bfca656fhttp://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/protesters-stop-illegal-logging-in-Polands-Biaowiea-Forest/Greenpeace protesters stop illegal logging in Poland’s Białowieża ForestWarsaw, 29 August 2017 - Peaceful activists from 12 European countries, brought together by Greenpeace Poland, have put themselves in the way of state-run logging machinery which is violating a July 27th EU Court of Justice interim ban on logging one of Europe’s oldest forests. [1] [2] Greenpeace protesters have chained themselves to harvesters and are standing in front of other logging equipment with banners reading: ”We are the forest. We are in danger”. They are demanding that loggers comply with the decision of the Court of Justice of the European Union and stop cutting down and removing trees from the forest. <p>A broad coalition of environmental NGOs in Poland -- including Greenpeace Poland, Wild Poland Foundation and people from the Camp for the Forest -- began the protests after their inspections of the area revealed that logging was ongoing in spite of the EU Court of Justice ban. [3]<br /> <br /> Robert Cyglicki, Director of Greenpeace Poland, said:</p><p></p><p>“Claims by the Ministry of the Environment that only necessary logging is happening in compliance with the EU Court of Justice decision, is a lie. Our inspections clearly show that European law is being laughed at in one of Europe’s last remaining ancient forests. That’s why we’re asking the world to join our peaceful protesters who have come from all over Europe and stand against the destruction of our common heritage and demand its protection.”</p><p></p><p>In order for the Białowieża Forest to be truly protected and avoid exploiting “safety measures” as a pretext for logging, Greenpeace activists demand:</p><p></p><p>• Observance of EU law and immediately stopping the removal of timber from the oldest fragments of the forest and habitats protected by the Natura 2000 network</p><p></p><p>• Setting up a public safety commission, which will include experts from all stakeholders</p><p></p><p>• Trimming trees that may jeopardize public safety in the oldest fragments of the Forest in a way that mimics nature and leaves them in place for natural decay.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p>Photos can be seen <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/greenpeacepl/">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes for Editors</strong></p><p></p><p>[1] The ban, in detail can be read, <a href="https://www.clientearth.org/eu-court-imposes-emergency-ban-logging-bialowieza-forest/">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[2] Peaceful protestors include activists from Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Austria, Croatia, Finland, Hungary, Turkey</p><p></p><p>[3] Environmentalists in recent weeks have collected evidence of breaking the provisional ban on the logging in the most fragile parts of the Bialowieza Forest. Between August 12-21, Greenpeace Forest Patrols found evidence of violation of the EU Court’s decision on 16 out of 30 forest areas logged since July 27.</p><p></p><p>The Court's decision allows for logging only to ensure public safety. Local inspections have shown that a significant number of logged trees did not pose a threat as defined by public safety. Moreover, in the Białowieża Forest area, timber was harvested and taken out of the forest, despite the exhaustion of the limit set in the 10-year Forest Management Plan to which the EU Court of Justice ruled.</p><p></p><p><strong>Contact</strong><br /> <br /> Marianna Hoszowska, communications, Greenpeace Poland +48 664 066 372<br />Email: marianna.hoszowska@greenpeace.<span style="text-decoration: underline;">org</span></p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk: pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org &nbsp;+31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Tue, 29 Aug 2017 16:41:00 ZforestsArin de Hoog89435c1c-451c-413e-ab0b-4ace63c05072http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/activists-released-after-being-arrested-for-protesting-against-oil-drillings-in-Norway/Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise and activists released after being arrested for protesting against oil drilling in NorwayTromsø, Norway, 21 August 2017 - The Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise and her crew of 35 activists have been released in Tromsø, Northern Norway. The Norwegian Coast Guard boarded the Arctic Sunrise and arrested the ship and her crew last Thursday at the Korpfjell drill site after a peaceful protest against Statoil’s controversial oil drilling in the Arctic and to oppose the Norwegian government’s granting of oil licences in violation of Norway’s Constitution and the Paris Agreement.<p>Six activists have been fined for breaching the safety zone around the oil rig, Songa Enabler, on Thursday. Greenpeace considers the <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Peaceful-protest-against-Arctic-drilling-unlawfully-ended-by-Norwegian-authorities/">arrest by the Norwegian authorities to be unlawful</a> as the protest was carried out in an area where the activists have a right to protest peacefully in connection with the right of freedom of navigation. There were no grounds under international law for the Norwegian Coast Guard to board the Dutch-flagged Arctic Sunrise.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace believes the action was important and necessary to highlight the Norwegian government’s granting of licenses for Statoil’s irresponsible drilling program.</p><p></p><p>“The activists stand for what they did and are facing the consequences. They have acted peacefully and with the urgency necessary to protect the global climate that the Norwegian government is right now putting at risk with reckless oil drilling in the Arctic. This new aggressive search for oil is a violation of Norway’s Constitution and a completely backwards decision while the rest of the world is agreeing to phase out fossil to reduce global warming,” said Truls Gulowsen, head of Greenpeace Norway.</p><p></p><p>“I am happy that we managed to expose the Norwegian government’s true face behind the self-proclaimed image as a green frontrunner. We protested peacefully with the support of hundreds of thousands people to make it clear that the Norwegian government is making a historic mistake with the opening of a new oil frontier. They know that more oil extraction will fuel extreme weather events like typhoons and droughts, so it’s about time they set people’s lives and health higher than short term oil profits,” said Austrian activist Dalia Kellou.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace will continue to fight Arctic drilling. The next battle will be fought in the courtroom through a climate lawsuit brought against the Norwegian government for handing out new Arctic oil licenses. Greenpeace Nordic and Nature and Youth will meet the Norwegian government in court on 14th November, arguing that the new oil licenses are a violation of &nbsp;the right to a safe and healthy environment as stated in the Norwegian Constitution (Article 112), as well as being safeguarded for future generations as well as the Paris Agreement.</p><p></p><p>Statoil’s ongoing oil drilling at the Korpfjell well is the northernmost oil operation ever in Norway.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Images</strong> can be found <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXVZK8M">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>The full collection from The People vs. Arctic Oil ship tour can be seen <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX4TKYR?utm_campaign=Press%20Release&amp;utm_source=Link&amp;utm_medium=AMS&amp;utm_campaign=Press%20Release&amp;utm_source=Photo&amp;utm_medium=AMS">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>Read more here about<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/no/reports/Media-Briefing-Lawsuit-2017/"> the climate lawsuit</a> and<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/no/reports/Media-Briefing-Oil-Drilling-in-the-Barents-Sea/"> oil drilling in the Barents Sea</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts</strong></p><p></p><p>Poul Bonke Justesen, communications lead, Greenpeace Nordic. Mobile: +45 2629 4938</p><p></p><p>Truls Gulowsen, head of Greenpeace Norway. Mobil: +47 90107904</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk: pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org &nbsp;+31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Tue, 22 Aug 2017 11:39:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hoog98d2a8d3-1a52-467b-99d3-f746fbda0d81http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Peaceful-protest-against-Arctic-drilling-unlawfully-ended-by-Norwegian-authorities/Peaceful protest against Arctic drilling unlawfully ended by Norwegian authoritiesKorpfjell, Barents Sea, Norway 17 August 2017 – Norwegian authorities have arrested the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise, following a peaceful protest in the Barents Sea. The authorities unlawfully ended the activists’ peaceful protest against drilling in the Arctic with seizure of the ship and arrests of all 35 activists and crew members on board. The Arctic Sunrise is currently being towed away from the drilling site, to the mainland in Tromsö, Northern Norway.<p dir="ltr">Early Thursday, activists on inflatable boats and kayaks entered the exclusion zone of Statoil’s Korpfjell well, Norway’s most northern oil drilling site to date, and attached a giant globe to the rig Songa Enabler. The globe carried written statements from people from all over the world, with a message to the Norwegian government to stop the oil drilling.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The activists halted the operation of the rig, and after several hours of demanding an end to the drilling in the Arctic, the Norwegian Coast Guard interfered with the peaceful protest.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Truls Gulowsen, Head of Greenpeace Norway, said:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The Norwegian coast guard doesn’t have the right to board or remove our ship. Protest at sea is an internationally recognized lawful use of the sea, related to the freedom of navigation. We are taking action against Arctic drilling in an area where our rights to protest are protected under international law. The Norwegian government cannot unjustifiably interfere with that right.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The Norwegian government seems more interested in protecting the reckless Arctic oil drilling operation carried out by state-owned Statoil, than listening to the concerns voiced by people from all over the world and protecting the right to protest against the opening of a new, aggressive oil frontier in the Arctic. This is a violation of Norway’s duty under its own Constitution and its commitments under the Paris Agreement.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace has monitored Statoil's oil drilling program in the Barents Sea for the last month.This is a part of Greenpeace’s global campaign to protect the climate and the Arctic. In Norway, Greenpeace Nordic and Nature and Youth have challenged the licensing of these Arctic oil fields in court, and the climate lawsuit will be heard in the Oslo District Court in November. The organization invites activists from all over the world to sign the People’s Witness Statement, that will be presented to the court.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">356,000 people have joined the call to the the Norwegian government to respect the Norwegian Constitution and The Paris Agreement.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">ENDS</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Protest at sea is an internationally recognized lawful use of the sea related to the freedom of navigation. This freedom exists within the Extended Continental Shelf under United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) Article 87.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">In exploiting the non-living resources in the extended continental shelf, Norway must not infringe or unjustifiably interfere with our freedom of navigation and our rights, including our right to protest (UNCLOS Articles 76, 78, 80).</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">While Greenpeace recognizes that Norway has the right to establish a safety zone around a fixed offshore installation, there should also be room to exercise the right to protest in a safe and peaceful manner.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Images</strong> can be found <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXVZK8M">here</a>.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">The full collection from The People vs. Arctic Oil ship tour can be seen <a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX4TKYR?utm_campaign=Press%20Release&amp;utm_source=Link&amp;utm_medium=AMS&amp;utm_campaign=Press%20Release&amp;utm_source=Photo&amp;utm_medium=AMS">here</a>.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Read more here about<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/no/reports/Media-Briefing-Lawsuit-2017/"> the climate lawsuit</a> and<a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/no/reports/Media-Briefing-Oil-Drilling-in-the-Barents-Sea/"> oil drilling in the Barents Sea</a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Contacts</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">For interviews with activists and spokespersons on board:</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Poul Bonke Justesen, communications lead, Greenpeace Nordic. Mobile: +45 2629 4938</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk: pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org &nbsp;+31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Thu, 17 Aug 2017 21:42:00 Zclimate changerfieldde00843d-6218-4dd3-9699-d0bd733097a3http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Greenpeace-activists-confront-Norwegian-governments-Arctic-oil-drilling-site1/Greenpeace activists confront Norwegian government’s Arctic oil drilling siteKorpfjell, Barents Sea, Norway 17 August 2017 – Peaceful activists from the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise have entered the exclusion zone of Statoil’s oil rig, Songa Enabler in the Barents Sea with kayaks and inflatable boats, while swimmers are in the waters protesting with hand banners. The activists are there to deliver this message to the Norwegian government from around the world: Put People over Arctic Oil. They are also displaying a constructed giant globe in front of the rig with written statements to the government. <p>35 activists from 25 countries are escalating a peaceful protest after tailing the rig for one month in the Barents Sea.</p><p></p><p>The Norwegian government has opened up for a new oil frontier in the Arctic. The state-owned oil company has just started to drill for oil at the Korpfjell well, a controversial site 415 kms from land. It is close to the ice edge and an important feeding areas for seabirds. This is the first opening of new areas for oil drillings in 20 years and it is the northernmost area licensed by Norway.</p><p></p><p>The “environmentally friendly” Norwegian government granted new oil licenses, as part of the 23<sup>rd</sup> license round, in the Arctic on the 10<sup>th</sup> June last year. Just ten days after, they ratified the Paris Agreement.<br /> <br /> Greenpeace US activist, Britt Baker, at the location said:</p><p></p><p>“As an American and global citizen, Trump's decision to retreat from the Paris climate agreement and boost fossil fuels at the expense of people around the world was devastating. Likewise, we see the Norwegian government opening new oil areas in the Arctic at full throttle, in spite of knowing the dangers it will have for future generations. The major difference between the situation in the U.S and Norway is that Trump left the Paris agreement with tunnel-vision motives to extend handouts to the flailing fossil fuel industry. Norway may as well have left the Paris agreement given the Norwegian's government desire to accelerate fossil fuel production. This government is showing the same disrespect to global climate commitments as Trump”.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace and its co-plaintiff Nature and Youth are taking the government to court in November, arguing that the new oil licenses are in breach of the Norwegian Constitution’s right to a healthy environment (Article 112). Despite the ongoing legal case, Statoil is drilling several new oil wells in the Arctic this summer. <br /> <br /> Greenpeace Norway Arctic campaigner, Erlend Tellnes, from on board the Arctic Sunrise, said:</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;“Norway is not as green as their image. With one hand, the government have signed the Paris Agreement and profiled themselves as an environmental champion, whilst handing out hundreds of new oil blocks in the Arctic with the other. They ignore and disrespect environmental, scientific recommendations and have offered the oil industry licenses in some of the most pristine areas of the Arctic. Now they have to answer for their actions in court.“&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>Within a month more than 150,000 people have joined the call to the Norwegian government to respect the Norwegian Constitution and The Paris Agreement, bringing the number to 355,000.</p><p></p><p>ENDS&nbsp;<br /><br /></p><p></p><p><strong>Notes to Editors</strong>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Photos </strong>from the protest can be seen&nbsp;<a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJXVZK8M">here</a>.&nbsp;<br /><br />The full collection from The People vs. Arctic Oil ship tour can be seen&nbsp;<a href="http://media.greenpeace.org/collection/27MZIFJX4TKYR?utm_campaign=Press%20Release&amp;utm_source=Link&amp;utm_medium=AMS&amp;utm_campaign=Press%20Release&amp;utm_source=Photo&amp;utm_medium=AMS">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><em>Read more here about </em><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/no/reports/Media-Briefing-Lawsuit-2017/">the climate lawsuit</a><em> and </em><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/norway/no/reports/Media-Briefing-Oil-Drilling-in-the-Barents-Sea/">oil drilling in the Barents Sea</a></p><p></p><p><strong>contacts</strong></p><p></p><p><em>For interviews with activists and spokespersons on board:</em></p><p></p><p>Poul Bonke Justesen, communications lead, Greenpeace Nordic. Mobile: +45 2629 4938</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International Press Desk:&nbsp;pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org &nbsp;+31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Thu, 17 Aug 2017 13:27:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hoog08a09bb2-862c-4364-a4d1-14b0246b33e4http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Greenpeace-International-responds-to-nuclear-tension-between-US-and-North-Korea/Greenpeace International responds to nuclear tension between US and North KoreaIn response to the escalating rhetoric and tension between the US and North Korea, Greenpeace International Executive Director Bunny McDiarmid said:<p dir="ltr">“Greenpeace first set sail as an organisation in 1971 to stop nuclear weapons testing and since then we have campaigned for a nuclear-free world. We believe in a world in which peace is achieved through diplomacy, negotiation and cooperation not by threat, military escalation and brinkmanship. Our mission continues and we call on all parties to pull back from the brink.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“The possession, development and the threat to use nuclear weapons became illegal under a UN treaty agreed in July by 122 countries. Greenpeace has consistently demanded the elimination of the world’s nuclear stockpile.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Nuclear weapons are neither a negotiating tactic nor a means to deliver true security. These weapons of mass destruction are designed for one purpose only: war. Their use, and even the threat of their use, poses an existential threat to all life on the planet.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr">“Greenpeace is alarmed by the escalating US-North Korean tension and urges all parties to rapidly de-escalate the situation.”</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">Greenpeace International Press Desk: pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org &nbsp;+31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</p>Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:23:00 Znuclearawillson5e72b338-8a2c-4d3b-9365-627c14323841http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Groundbreaking-climate-change-case-brought-against-Australias-biggest-bank/Groundbreaking climate change case brought against Australia’s biggest bankSydney, 8 August 2017: A groundbreaking case filed today against the Commonwealth Bank by shareholders argues the bank has failed to disclose the financial and reputational risk posed by climate change.<p dir="ltr">Filed by Environmental Justice Australia on behalf of Guy and Kim Abrahams, shareholders of over 20 years, the action is against one of Australia’s “Big Four” banks.</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.marketforces.org.au/campaigns/banks-new/twodegrees/" target="_blank"><span>Analysis</span></a><span> by Australian environmental finance group Market Forces shows that Commonwealth Bank has loaned AU$6 billion to fossil fuel companies since publicly committing to support the goals of the Paris Agreement 18 months ago. [1]</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>"The Commonwealth Bank's multi-billion-dollar exposure to fossil fuels not only poses a threat to future generations and the Great Barrier Reef, but, as regulators and analysts have repeatedly warned, it also poses a risk to the Bank's own shareholders,” said Greenpeace Australia Pacific campaigner, Jonathan Moylan.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The case is the latest in a string of legal actions related to climate change taking place across the world. </span><span>These include actions initiated by frontline communities in the Philippines, senior women in Switzerland, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, farmers from Peru and Pakistan, youth in Norway, Pakistan, Uganda, and the United States, and individuals and NGOs in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Sweden.</span><span>[2] Three communities in California also recently filed lawsuits against fossil fuel companies demanding compensation for the current and future costs for adapting to climate-induced sea-level rise.[3]</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“Banks around the world are now on 'notice' that climate change creates significant and material financial risks for many shareholders, now and into the future. If banks and their directors and officers don't fully and accurately disclose the risks to shareholders, then they may face significant legal and liability risk. Today's filing is a case in point,” said Kristin Casper, </span><span>Litigation Counsel for Greenpeace’s Climate Justice and Liability Project.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>“</span><span>The climate lawsuit filed against Commonwealth Bank may be a first but it won't be the last.”</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Financial institutions have repeatedly been warned of potential for various liabilities to arise from climate risk, most notably by the G20 Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures, led by Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney. In February, Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority director Geoff Summerhayes also warned the prudential regulator would be paying increased attention to climate risk.</span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Notes to Editors: </strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[1] </span><a href="https://www.marketforces.org.au/campaigns/banks-new/twodegrees/" target="_blank"><span>https://www.marketforces.org.au/campaigns/banks-new/twodegrees/</span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[2] </span><a href="http://peoplevsbigpolluters.org/" target="_blank"><span>http://peoplevsbigpolluters.org/</span></a></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>[3] </span><span><a href="https://www.sheredling.com/press-room/" target="_blank">https://www.sheredling.com/press-room/</a></span></p><p></p><p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Media contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Simon Black, Greenpeace Australia-Pacific Senior Media Campaigner, (+61) 418 219 086 </span><span><a href="mailto:simon.black@greenpeace.org">simon.black@greenpeace.org</a></span></p><p></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Greenpeace International Press Desk, pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, phone: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)</span></p>Tue, 08 Aug 2017 05:39:00 Zclimate changeshchungfd6f37c9-cc6c-4140-ba47-cb423cf7b078http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Global-movement-unites-against-Norwegian-oil/Global movement unites against Norwegian oil in the ArcticLofoten, Norway, 1 August 2017 - The Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise has anchored at the island of Lofoten in Northern Norway to join with climate activists at a youth camp of around 400 young people who oppose the Norwegian government’s oil drilling. For more than a week peaceful activists have protested in the Barents Sea against the Norwegian government’s aggressive search for oil in the fragile Arctic. <p>Greenpeace Nordic and its co-plaintiff, Natur og Ungdom (Nature and Youth), will face the government in Court in Oslo in November, where the new drilling will be subject to a historic climate lawsuit. They argue that granting licenses to open a new oil frontier breaches the Norwegian Constitutional right to a healthy and safe environment for current and future generations and contravenes the Paris Agreement.</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;One of the groups at Lofoten will be the organisation “Our Children’s Trust”. Our Children’s Trust is supporting the <em>Juliana v U.S. </em>lawsuit; a climate change case on behalf of future generations in the United States - brought by 21 young plaintiffs from 10 to 21 years-old and a climate scientist - who are taking President Donald Trump to federal court.</p><p></p><p>“Our generation and future generations have done the least to cause the climate crisis - yet it is our future that is most at risk. Across the globe people are standing up to demand that governments stop threatening - <em>and start protecting</em> - our lives. In the <em>Juliana v. United States </em>lawsuit we sued the United States government for violating our fundamental right to a safe and stable climate. And while President Trump can pull out of the the Paris Agreement, he cannot pull out of our lawsuit," said Kelsey Juliana, a young plaintiff in the <em>Juliana v U.S </em>lawsuit<em>.</em></p><p></p><p>The young Americans assert that their government, through the affirmative actions it has taken and continues to take to cause climate change, is violating their constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property and has failed to protect essential public trust resources.</p><p></p><p>“The Norwegian government has a duty to safeguard the right to a stable climate based on the &nbsp;Constitutional guarantee to a healthy and safe environment for current and future generations. But how can the Norwegian government protect this constitutional right while also opening up 40 new blocks for oil and gas drilling in the Barents Sea? All 21 of us in the <em>Juliana v U.S.</em> case stand with Greenpeace, Nature &amp; Youth and other young people across the globe who are fighting to secure and enforce their legal right to a safe and stable climate,” said Kiran Oommen, a young plaintiff in the <em>Juliana v U.S</em> lawsuit<em>.</em></p><p></p><p>The Norwegian lawsuit is also backed by the Senior Women For Climate Protection (KlimaSeniorinnen), an association of more than 700 women aged 65 and older. They are part of a wave of climate litigation, demanding government accountability in court. The seniors claim that authorities are failing to fulfil their duty to protect their human rights as required by the Swiss constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights.</p><p></p><p>“Climate action must protect vulnerable people - young and old - and in every country. When governments fail to live up to their constitutions we all have to step up. Norway and Switzerland and all other countries must do more to avoid catastrophic climate change. We are more than 770 senior women suing our government because we are already suffering from the dire consequences of climate change. But we are not doing this for ourselves. It is for the youth and the generations to come as they will live in a world of disasters if we do not quit fossil fuels quickly. We have a strong case, and I’m sure our legal case will make a profound difference,” said Anne Mahrer (69), co-president of KlimaSeniorinnen.</p><p></p><p>While the group is awaiting the federal administrative court’s decision on their lawsuit against the Swiss government and its climate policies, Norwegian Natur og Ungdom is excited to plead its case at trial in November.</p><p></p><p>“It is amazing to experience the global support for our lawsuit in Norway. The government knows that burning oil causes climate change, and there is already more oil than we can afford to burn. They know burning oil contributes to the melting of Arctic ice and increases the risk of extreme weather, like typhoons and droughts, putting homes and families in danger. Still they have just opened a new, Arctic oil frontier. These reckless oil drillings needs to be stopped,” said Ingrid Skjoldvær, activist and leader of Natur og Ungdom.</p><p></p><p>After one week at the activist camp, the Arctic Sunrise and close to 30 activists will continue exposing Statoil’s oil drilling. The state-owned oil company is planning to drill for oil at the Korpfjell well this summer, a controversial site 400 km from land, close to the ice edge and important feeding areas for seabirds. This is the first opening of new areas for oil drillings &nbsp;in 20 years and it is the northernmost area licensed by Norway - ever.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Photos </strong>from Lofoten and The People vs. Arctic Oil ship tour <a href="http://act.gp/2tU2pzX">here</a><strong>. &nbsp;</strong></p><p></p><p><strong>Media briefings</strong>:</p><p></p><p>Briefings about Oil drilling in the Barents Sea can be read <a href="http://act.gp/2w0SwSu">here</a>.</p><p></p><p>Briefing about the climate lawsuit in Norway seen <a href="http://act.gp/2tTWqLt">here</a>.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><strong>Contact:</strong></p><p></p><p>Poul Bonke Justesen, communications lead, Greenpeace Nordic.<br />Mobile: +45 2629 4938<br />Email:&nbsp;poul.bonke.justesen@greenpeace.org</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;</p>Tue, 01 Aug 2017 11:56:00 Zclimate changeArin de Hoog589a5f1e-38e5-43cf-b4df-140df30096b4http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Lucy-Lawless-Norwegian-oil-arctic-protest/Actress Lucy Lawless joins climate change survivor in protest against Arctic exploitation for Norwegian oilBarents Sea, Norway, 21 July 2017 - 11 peaceful activists from the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise have taken to the water in inflatable boats with handheld banners to oppose the Statoil Songa Enabler oil rig, 275 km North off the Norwegian coast, in the Arctic Barents sea.<p>The banners say: “People Vs. Arctic Oil” and are directed at Statoil and the Norwegian government, which has opened a new, aggressive search for oil in the waters of the Barents Sea.</p><p></p><p>Climate change survivor and activist Joanna Sustento from the Philippines, and actress and activist Lucy Lawless from New Zealand, are among the 19 nationalities who have travelled to the high Northern waters onboard the Arctic Sunrise. Sustento wants the Norwegian government to take responsibility for its climate commitments and development of a new oil frontier in the Arctic. She lost her entire family, except for her brother, to Super-typhoon Haiyan in 2013 which left large parts of her hometown, Tacloban, in ruins.</p><p></p><p>“It is hard for me to grasp and accept that a government like Norway’s is opening up new Arctic oil drilling, knowing full well it will put families and homes in other parts of the world at risk. I’m here in the Arctic to see this irresponsibility with my own eyes; share my story about the human consequences of climate change; and call on the Norwegian government to put a stop to this dangerous search for new oil,” said Sustento.</p><p></p><p>Just two weeks after signing the Paris Climate Agreement, the Norwegian Government awarded 13 oil companies 10 new licenses in a completely new area, for the first time in more than 20 years.</p><p></p><p>“It is scary to think that super-typhoons could become the new normal if governments like Norway’s allow more oil drilling. I couldn't stop the typhoon that destroyed my home, but Norway could play a role in curbing the severity and frequency of these storms right now. It gives me hope to see that right now people are taking peaceful action for the climate all over the world and holding governments accountable,” added Sustento.</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace and the Norwegian organisation Nature and Youth, have also filed a lawsuit against the Norwegian government, arguing that the new oil licenses violate both the Paris Climate Agreement and paragraph 112 of the Norwegian Constitution, which commits the government “to safeguard the people’s right to a clean and healthy environment for future generations.”</p><p></p><p>More than 250,000 people have added their names to support the climate lawsuit, and these witness statements will be used to support the case in court.</p><p></p><p>“I can’t stand by, doing nothing, when we know beyond a doubt that we can’t burn a single barrel of oil from a new well if we are to avoid a climate catastrophe. I don’t ever want to look my kids in the eye and explain why I didn’t do all I could to protect them from climate change. It is beyond my understanding that the Norwegian government is giving Statoil a ticket to drill like mad at the expense of future generations,” said Lucy Lawless.</p><p></p><p>The Statoil rig Songa Enabler is currently looking for new oil at the Gemini North license, and is expected to continue to the Korpfjell license later this summer. Both licenses were awarded in the 23rd licensing round that is subject of the court case filed by Greenpeace and Nature and Youth, scheduled for hearing on November 14th, 2017. Statoil and the Norwegian government have decided to go ahead with the drillings despite the legal dispute.</p><p></p><p>ENDS</p><p></p><p><strong>Photos </strong><strong>from the protest can be seen <a href="http://act.gp/2uhXYjm">here</a>.</strong></p><p></p><p><strong>Read about the case against the Norwegian government <a href="http://act.gp/2vrIny4">here</a>.<br /></strong></p><p></p><p><strong>Contact:<br /><br /></strong><em>Please call for interviews with activists and spokespersons on board</em></p><p></p><p>Poul Bonke Justesen, communications lead, Greenpeace Nordic.<br />Mobile: +45 2629 4938<br />Email: poul.bonke.justesen@greenpeace.org&nbsp;</p>Fri, 21 Jul 2017 14:50:00 Zoceansclimate changeArin de Hoog05883815-4ea5-49e3-9f46-1dc0e2a6c293http://p3-raw.greenpeace.org/international/en/press/releases/2017/Justice-served-in-Greenpeace-Arctic-30-case-as-Russia-ordered-to-pay-the-Netherlands-54-million-in-damages/Justice served in Greenpeace Arctic 30 case as Russia ordered to pay the Netherlands €5.4 million in damagesAn international tribunal has awarded the Netherlands €5.395.561,61 plus interest in damages over the high-profile Greenpeace ‘Arctic 30’ dispute with Russia, concluding proceedings which resoundingly reaffirm the right to peaceful protest at sea.<p>The award follows a lengthy course of arbitration dating back to the unlawful boarding, seizing and detention of the Greenpeace ship, Arctic Sunrise, following a peaceful protest in international waters in September 2013. [1] [2]</p><p></p><p>The 30 men and women on board (28 Greenpeace activists and two freelance journalists), known as the ‘Arctic 30’, spent two months in prison - first in the Arctic city of Murmansk and later in St Petersburg - before being released on bail and finally freed altogether by an amnesty adopted by the Russian Duma.</p><p></p><p>The Arctic Sunrise itself was returned to Greenpeace after nine months at port in Murmansk, having suffered considerable damage during the arrest and subsequent detention inside the Arctic Circle. [3] Inflatable boats and other equipment had also sustained serious damage.</p><p></p><p>Jasper Teulings, Greenpeace International General Counsel, said:<br /> “The road to justice can be long but today’s award emphatically upholds international law and the right to peaceful protest against oil drilling in the Arctic - and at sea worldwide.”</p><p></p><p>Ben Ayliffe, Arctic campaigner for Greenpeace International, added:</p><p></p><p>“The Arctic 30’s peaceful protest showed the world the extreme lengths some governments and corporations would go to in order to try and keep us hooked on oil. The brave action they took at that remote drilling platform inspired millions of people to come together to stand against the oil industry. From the icy Arctic to the Amazon Mouth and the tar sands pipelines of North America, people have followed the example of the Arctic 30 and are helping create a greener, safer and more prosperous world that no longer relies on fossil fuels or oil companies.”</p><p></p><p>Russia was held liable [1] in August 2015 for the boarding, seizing and detention of the Arctic Sunrise and for subsequent measures taken against the vessel and the individuals on board. Today’s award puts a figure on the damages owed by Russia.</p><p></p><p>Throughout the case, the Russian government refused to participate at any stage of the legal proceedings or to pay its share of the legal costs set by the Tribunal [4]. It is therefore not yet clear whether Russia will comply with today’s binding ruling to pay damages. Any of those funds that are forwarded by the Dutch government to Greenpeace International will go towards covering costs incurred, including ship repairs - and of course compensation for immaterial damages suffered by the members of the Arctic 30 will be passed to the 30 individuals themselves.</p><p></p><p>Last week, after an extensive refit and refurbishment, the Arctic Sunrise set sail to campaign against exploratory oil drilling in the Barents Sea by Norwegian company Statoil [5], which is ploughing further north than ever before. Greenpeace and allies are challenging these plans in court and the Arctic Sunrise will play a leading role exposing the recklessness of drilling above the Arctic Circle this summer.&nbsp;[6]</p><p></p><p>Separately from the arbitration brought by the Netherlands, the Arctic 30 have applied to the European Court of Human Rights, arguing that the actions of the Russian authorities breached their rights to liberty and freedom of expression. That case is still in its early stages. [7]<br /> <br /> END</p><p></p><p><strong>Notes:</strong><br /> [1] Award of the Tribunal, August 2015, in which Russia was held liable: <a href="http://act.gp/2v5dmiB">http://act.gp/2v5dmiB</a></p><p></p><p>Presiding over the case is a five-member international arbitral tribunal, based in Vienna, formed specifically to hear the case in accordance with Annex VII of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. In November 2013, while the tribunal was being established, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in Hamburg ordered the immediate release of the vessel and her crew as a provisional measure. The Russian Federation failed to comply with that order.</p><p></p><p>[2] Case view of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (acting as registry): <a href="http://act.gp/2v5u2pY">http://act.gp/2v5u2pY</a></p><p></p><p>[3] <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Photo and video of Arctic Sunrise damage, repairs and return to Amsterdam</span></strong></p><p></p><p>Arctic Sunrise returns from Murmansk to Amsterdam (June - August 2014) - photo and video: &nbsp;<a href="http://act.gp/2v5dpLj">http://act.gp/2v5dpLj</a></p><p></p><p>Repair activities on damaged interiors of the Arctic Sunrise, August 2014 - photo: <a href="http://act.gp/2v5dlex">http://act.gp/2v5dlex<br /> </a>Final refurbishment and preparation (July 2017) <a href="http://act.gp/2uxlM4Z">http://act.gp/2uxlM4Z</a></p><p></p><p>[4] Russia’s official response to the award on the merits issued in August 2015 can be found here: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/-/asset_publisher/cKNonkJE02Bw/content/id/1707214%0B">http://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/-/asset_publisher/cKNonkJE02Bw/content/id/1707214</a></span></p><p></p><p>[5] See <a href="http://act.gp/2v7CXqP">www.savethearctic.org/en/peoplevsarcticoil</a></p><p></p><p>[6] Lawsuit accepted by the court: <a href="http://act.gp/2ucOfgL">http://act.gp/2ucOfgL</a></p><p></p><p>[7] Press release on the ECHR case: <a href="http://act.gp/2tJxNln">http://act.gp/2tJxNln</a></p><p></p><p>[8] Link to the press release of the Permanent Court of Arbitration on the compensation award: <a href="https://pca-cpa.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/175/2017/07/Press-Release-of-18-July-2017.pdf">https://pca-cpa.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/175/2017/07/Press-Release-of-18-July-2017.pdf</a></p><p></p><p>[9] Link to Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs press release (Dutch): <a title="Dutch MFA press release" href="http://www.rijksoverheid.nl/ministeries/ministerie-van-buitenlandse-zaken/nieuws/2017/07/18/koenders-tevreden-met-toekenning-schadevergoeding-in-zaak-arctic-sunrise" target="_blank">www.rijksoverheid.nl/ministeries/ministerie-van-buitenlandse-zaken/nieuws/2017/07/18/koenders-tevreden-met-toekenning-schadevergoeding-in-zaak-arctic-sunrise</a><br />and MFA website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.government.nl/ministries/ministry-of-foreign-affairs/">www.government.nl/ministries/ministry-of-foreign-affairs/</a></p><p></p><p><strong>Contacts:</strong></p><p></p><p>Ben Ayliffe, Arctic and Oil Campaign, Greenpeace International: <a href="mailto:bayliffe@greenpeace.org">bayliffe@greenpeace.org</a>, +44 7815708683</p><p></p><p>Maria Favorskaya, Communications, Greenpeace Russia: <a href="mailto:maria.favorskaya@greenpeace.org">maria.favorskaya@greenpeace.org</a> / +7 (495) 988 74 60 ext 424</p><p></p><p>Jasper Teulings, General Counsel, Greenpeace International: <a href="mailto:jasper.teulings@greenpeace.org">jasper.teulings@greenpeace.org</a>, +31 6 2000 5229</p><p></p><p>Daniel Simons, Legal Counsel, Greenpeace International: <a href="mailto:daniel.simons@greenpeace.org">daniel.simons@greenpeace.org</a>, +45 278 289 01</p><p></p><p>Greenpeace International press desk (24hrs): <a href="mailto:pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org">pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org</a>, +31 207 18 2470</p>Tue, 18 Jul 2017 14:51:00 Zclimate changeabout ustlowe