Green Issue: Editorial February 2021

2021-02-27

By The Green Issue Editors

As we head into the 13th March WA state election Greens candidates and supporters are out on the hustings trying harder than ever to convey to the public The Greens' message – based on the four pillars of ecological wisdom, social justice, grassroots democracy and nonviolence. Stewart Godden gives us an insight into the motivations in standing up as a Greens candidate. Doorknocking has been proceeding in earnest, providing feedback as to what the voters are currently thinking. While other countries and jurisdictions have legislation protecting basic human rights, it is noted that Australia, or WA, does not. A Charter of Rights for WA is thus proposed.

Industrial agriculture has lead to a quantum increase in food available to the almost 8 billion humans on this planet, but at enormous cost to the ecological support system of the planet. For food production and distribution into the future a planet-friendly green revolution is needed. The other great threat to the ecology of the planet is our profligate exploitation of fossil fuels, of which WA is a major culprit through its addiction to the natural gas industry. But it is possible to wean off such addictions, as illustrated by Germany as it eases out of coal, the basis of its energy supply over the previous 2½ centuries.

Greens representation in the WA Legislative Council is now up for re-election. However, Robin Chapple (Mining and Pastoral) is standing down after a long stint. In a valedictory report he reflects on his journey – the accomplishments and what still needs to be done. Reports indicating past and recent achievements and current campaign activities are also available from Alison Xamon (North Metropolitan), Diane Evers (South West) and Tim Clifford (East Metropolitan). 

Header photo: Launching our 2021 State Election platform at Parliament House, on 8th February. Piper Rollins