The environment group Friends of the Earth says the aluminium industry should commit to adopting more renewable energy rather than attacking the proposed carbon tax.
The Australian Aluminium Council says production may be forced offshore if the carbon tax does not include compensation for the industry.
Cam Walker from the Friends of the Earth says industry is trying to stir up fear in communities like Portland.
He says Alcoa, which operates the Portland smelter, needs to be focus on renewable energy rather than compensation.
"They need to not be hiding behind this fear campaign, they need to commit to using and sourcing entirely renewable energy," he said.
"That will be fantastic for Portland as a community, it will certainly be fantastic in terms of employment and manufacturing outcomes for the town." |
