Environmental activists are occupying a forest near Tesla’s factory near Berlin, aiming to halt the electric vehicle maker’s German expansion plans and protect local groundwater. Tesla plans to expand its factory in Gruenheide by 1.7 square kilometers to increase production to one million vehicles annually. The environmental group Robin Wood, a protest organizer, claims the expansion threatens the region’s drinking water supply.
Activists have camped out in tree-tops, obstructing the forest clearance needed for expansion. Protesters argue that the project exploits local resources and undermines water supply. Local residents, with over 60% voting against the Tesla project in a recent poll, are supported by the organizers. Tesla views the plans as beneficial for the community, expressing a commitment to dialogue. The Gruenheide factory opened in 2022, facing challenges during approval and construction, including concerns about water usage. The company aims to address these issues and promote sustainable infrastructure development.
Source – CGTN