Activists Storm the Stage at DC Coal-to-Liquids Conference

Today seven activists are facing a crowd of some of the world’s biggest proponents of coal-based energy at the World Coal-to-Liquids Conference 2009 in Washington, DC.

The group, acting as Rising Tide DC, interrupted the planned panel discussion to interject some ideas of their own about the environmental detestation caused by coal technologies. The panel, which began at 4:30 pm, includes representatives of Chevron, the World Coal Institute, the World Petroleum Council, and Consol Energy.

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Coal-to-Liquids technologies release excessive amounts of carbon dioxide, much more than the process to refine petroleum. In order to put a clean face on the obviously dirty technology, the industry relies on carbon sequestration — an unproven and unreliable concept. This conference joins together dozens of companies who are willingly taking a step backwards in the energy field rather than joining in the progress of clean energy.

“Its time to stop investing in false solutions. We are facing a climate crisis. It is time to stand up and fight for a sustainable future,” said Emma Cassidy of DC Rising Tide.

UPDATE 1:

The group has unfurled a banner reading “Coal Takes Lives,” a play on the conference’s name, CTL 2009. Two activists made short speeches to the crowd before being escorted out. Others are still waiting on deck.

UPDATE 2:

After filibustering the meeting for roughly 30 minutes, all activists have been escorted off the premises. No arrests have been made.

Photos and video of the action will be available shortly.

Press photo via CTL 2009

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