Ian McLean Spokesperson for the Green Party

Jeanette Fitzsimons, retired co-leader of the Green Party, was in town this week.

Her themes: coal exploitation, how New Zealand is contributing to global warming, and the failings of the RMA.

The RMA requires that consequences for global warming are considered during a resource consent process.

However, our courts have recently decided that if we mine coal here, but burn it elsewhere such as in India or China, then there is no need to consider global warming.

Our grandchildren may regret that ruling, because it doesn't matter where the coal is burned. The consequences apply to the entire planet.

The mining itself might be environmentally destructive and that must be considered. But the courts have already shown that they will put economic benefits before even pristine environments.

Benefits, economic or otherwise? Well, the mining is done by international companies. The country receives a pittance in royalties. And the profits flow offshore. We keep the mess.

Ian McLean is a spokesperson for the Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand.