“We really do not want this to be the Greta effect,” said Prebbleton Community Association Committee chairman Peter Hunter, who asked the Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board to help stop Waste Management Ltd from expanding a treatment and stabilisation facility in the area.
- Hundreds turn out to voice concerns over waste treatment plant expansion
- Neighbours say plan to expand waste plant could harm health
He told the board he did not want a situation similar to that of 17-year-old Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg who says “you lot stuffed it up for us and we have to live with it and try to fix it".
Thunberg has gained international recognition for her campaigning on climate change.
“We don’t want that, we can’t afford it. We need help,” Mr Hunter said.
He is calling on the board to help “stop” and “review” what Waste Management Ltd is trying to do.
"All we want to do is protect the environment, protect our people, protect our children, protect our resources and our grandchildren down the track."
Residents have been considering legal options to take the issue to the High Court for a judicial review of Environment Canterbury’s decision to only consult people within 500m of the facility.
Board chairman Mike Mora thanked Mr Hunter for his presentation.
“All we can do is lobby and work closely with you and I would like to suggest a couple of members of this community board actually be formal liaisons with the Prebbleton group on this matter because it is going to affect people as much in our ward as it is yours,’’ he said.
Hornby residents have raised concerns over how they will be impacted by the new hazardous plant, particularly if the wind blows south.
Board member Helen Broughton said it could grant funding to support the resident’s cause.
Mr Mora said he and board member Mark Peters will meet with the Prebbleton association to discuss the next steps. City councillor Jimmy Chen will also be involved.
