KEEPING pension money invested in fossil fuels could mean workers lose out on their hard-earned cash, activists claim.

The Waltham Forest & Redbridge Green Party is calling on Redbridge Council to divest from fossil fuels in an attempt to save the environment and reduce the risk of workers’ losing part of their pensions.

The £578 million Redbridge pension fund is made up of 5.67 per cent investment in coal, oil and gas businesses.

But Green Party activists in the area claim that if moves are not made to divest the fossil fuel funds, teachers, bus drivers and thousands of other workers in the borough could lose out.

Party co-ordinator Rebecca Tully said: “If fund managers fail to incorporate climate change and carbon risk into their investment strategy, the people whose jobs keep our community functioning could see their future pensions eroded.

“Fossil fuel divestment is an unarguably positive move.

“It is a victory for common sense, as well as climate and economic sense.”

The Green Party has stepped up its campaign for fossil fuel divestment after Waltham Forest Council made history in becoming the first in the UK to commit to it last week (September 23).

Ms Tully added: “We urge Redbridge Council to follow the lead of its trailblazing neighbours and make a firm pledge to protect your employees and divest Redbridge from these assets.”

Redbridge Council has been contacted for comment.