CIVICUS speaks with Anne Harris, a campaigner with Coal Action Network, which works to end the use, mining and importation of coal and to secure justice for communities affected by the UK’s current and historic involvement with coal.
On 30 September, the UK closed its last coal-fired power station, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, ending 142 years of national dependence on coal. Its closure fulfilled the government’s commitment to phase out coal by 2024 as part of its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy. Measures have been put in place to help Ratcliffe’s remaining employees transition to new roles in the energy sector. Environmental groups welcomed the milestone and called for an immediate ban on new coal mining and exports.
