Over 170 activists were arrested in Newcastle, Australia, after disrupting operations at the world's largest coal export port. Organized by the Rising Tide climate action group, the protest, dubbed the “people’s blockade,” aimed to draw attention to the urgent need for action on climate change.
Kayakers and small boats blockaded the port's shipping lane, forcing at least one bulk carrier to turn back. This marks the second consecutive year Rising Tide has staged the protest at Newcastle, which ships 15% of the world’s coal supply.
Rising Tide spokesperson Emma Wickham called the demonstration a stand against the fossil fuel industry's contribution to the climate crisis. “We are here to demand an end to coal exports and the transition to renewable energy,” she said.
The protest comes amid increasing international pressure on governments and corporations to phase out coal, a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. Newcastle port authorities condemned the disruption, citing economic and safety concerns.
Despite the arrests, Rising Tide pledged to continue its campaign, arguing that civil disobedience is necessary to achieve meaningful climate action. The group’s efforts have sparked widespread debate about the balance between environmental activism and economic interests in Australia, a leading coal exporter.
