The Labor Environment Action Network is a network of grassroots Labor members committed to action on climate change and sustainability. LEAN originated in New South Wales in 2004, and has recently launched in Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia.

LEAN is proud of Labor’s record on the environment, but we think there is more to be done.

LEAN congratulates Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on ratifying the Kyoto Protocol and acknowledging publicly the urgency of addressing climate change.

We support and encourage meaningful national and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, such as renewable energy technologies, improved public transport, sustainable agricultural practices and green building initiatives.

Educate and engage

We want to engage Labor members and supporters and encourage grass-roots action to improve Labor’s policies.

LEAN develops and campaigns for strong policy action on climate change based on the science. We advocate moving to a low carbon economy in a way that reflects Labor’s values of social justice, decent work and strong communities. We talk with Labor people, organisations and governments about our ideas.

LEAN is a way for new people to become involved in the Labor Party, particularly people with a strong interest in climate change and sustainability. We are non-factional and welcome Labor members from any faction.

We develop dialogue and relationships with unions, think tanks, environmental NGOs and community organisations about these issues.

Ambassador program

A key part of the LEAN outreach program are our volunteer Ambassadors - rank-and-file Labor members who speak at branch meetings about climate change. Please register on our website if you’d like to become a LEAN Ambassador.

Councillor training

Later in 2009, LEAN will be providing training program for current and prospective Labor councillors. This training will focus on sustainability, planning and transport issues.

Other activities

LEAN holds a range of activities, including forums, discussions and fundraisers.