An anonymous group of Adelaide activists is pledging to continue its resistance against Elon Musk’s proposed Tesla factory, even after the Marion city council granted preliminary approval. The determination of these activists highlights a growing trend of local communities mobilizing against corporate developments, particularly when linked to controversial public figures.
The proposed Tesla showroom and battery recycling plant has become a lightning rod for discontent, drawing criticism on multiple fronts. While environmental concerns, especially the removal of trees, are a key factor for groups like “Trees not Teslas,” a significant portion of the opposition stems from deep-seated “anti-Tesla and anti-Elon Musk sentiment” that resonates with global anti-Musk movements.
Despite an overwhelming 95% of nearly 1,000 public submissions opposing the project, the Marion city council voted to advance it to the next stage of state government approval. The council cited the economic benefits of 100 new jobs and millions of dollars in revenue as justification for their decision, with the mayor suggesting Tesla would simply go elsewhere if rejected.
However, the anonymous activists, alongside the “Trees not Teslas” movement, are not deterred. They argue that the council’s decision undermines genuine public consultation and that the environmental mitigation efforts proposed are insufficient. The battle now shifts to the state level, where activists hope to leverage public pressure to halt the development.