Climate Action

Climate Change probably needs no introduction. It’s one of, if not the most pressing global issues and threats to humanity as we know it. But there are solutions out there, it’s now time to take action.

Melting ice-caps, mass deforestation, loss of biodiversity, raging wildfires and unpredictable, extreme weather, including record high temperatures, are all the result of the overall warming of our planet. 97% of scientists around the world agree that climate change is resulting from human activity and the consequences, if no action is taken, lead to mass extinction of life as we know it. Yet the lack of urgency from global leaders and governments is staggering and grave cause for concern. Governments and corporations, particularly in the West, have been seen time and time again to prioritise the protection of the economy and growth over the protection of our shared home, planet Earth.

Youth climate activist Grera Thunberg inspired millions worldwide after she protested outside the Swedish parliament in 2018. She held a sign saying "School Strike for Climate", to pressure the government to meet carbon emissions targets. However, it’s vital to note that there are countless activists of colour and indigenous tribes that have been campaigning these very messages for years that have not gotten media coverage, due to media white washing.

Whilst it’s great that we all want to do our bit, the stark reality is, just 100 companies have been the source of more than 70% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions since 1988. The likes of xxonMobil, Shell, BP and Chevron are identified as among the highest emitting investor-owned companies. However, major corporations have been incredibly manipulative in shifting accountability onto individual consumers. The concept of the “carbon footprint”, that popular measure of personal impact, was the brainchild of an advertising firm working for BP, to protect big oil interests.

Recycling, banning plastic straws in the UK and charging 5p for plastic carrier bags are all positive things. However, in the vastness of the issues regarding climate change, they barely scratch the surface. If we are to successfully address and reverse global warming and climate change, we are going to need an up-hall of systems and the economy as we know it. Infinite growth is not possible on a planet with diminishing resources. Yes, there’s a lot to do, but hope is not lost. 

Raising awareness about climate change is taking on all forms and outlets. From protests, to documentaries series like Green Planet to recent films like Don’t Look Up, the conversations are happening. Technological innovations around the world are revolutionising the way we live and the way we fight climate change. From renewable energy sources to new farming techniques, to the growing appeal of the vegan diet to the concept of a circular economy. The solutions are out there, it’s now time to implement them.