Medieval German hamlet battles brown coal mine 30 July 04

The medieval village of Heuersdorf has found itself in the front line of the battle against climate change. The historic settlement – which includes an 800-year old church – is fighting for its life against plans by the US-owned MIBRAG mining corporation to stripmine lignite (brown coal) from underneath the village. Not only would the entire place be destroyed, but lignite is the highest CO2-emitter of any fossil fuel, argue the villagers. They’ve established a website to argue their case, and would value any support – especially if anyone has time to email the German press and government with their views. The New York Times has recently covered the story, giving further international airing to Heuersdorf’s plight.