Together Stronger

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF

Last month I focused on individual actions, but there are also lots of opportunities to work with others on environmental issues. There are numerous groups nationally and locally campaigning on a wide range of issues in different ways. Working with others can help us create a bigger impact and you’ll hopefully find a group whose focus and approach is right for you.

There’s been some controversy around the tactics of groups such as Extinction Rebellion (XR), Insulate Britain and Just Stop Oil. Their actions have certainly helped increase public awareness of the climate emergency, yet the UK government still isn’t doing anywhere near enough to tackle it.

However, it’s unfair to attribute this lack of progress to these groups’ tactics, as those trying to achieve similar aims through alternative means have been equally unsuccessful. David Attenborough isn’t generally criticised for failing to prevent climate change through his speeches and TV programmes.

The blame for our current situation rests primarily with politicians refusing to act and those, such as the fossil fuel industry, lobbying against the necessary action.

XR recently made the headlines with their “We Quit” announcement. They acknowledged that some of their tactics (along with the government and media responses) have created a barrier to participation for many people. By shifting away from actions that disrupt the public, XR hopes to create increased opportunities to work alongside other groups.

In response to those who say ‘I agree with your cause, but not your tactics’, XR is saying ‘we’ve listened and we’re stopping the stuff you don’t like - will you now stand alongside us to demand climate action?’ They’re removing a common excuse for sitting on the sidelines in an effort to encourage more of us to become active (either through XR or other groups).

More information (including FAQs) can be found on their website: www.extinctionrebellion.uk

At the other end of the spectrum, are groups such as the RSPB and wildlife trusts and those campaigning on specific issues such as Plastic Free Wrexham. I’m not going to argue in favour of any particular focus or approach - it’s about finding the best fit for your own interests, expertise and level of commitment. However, the more of us that join campaigns, the more likely our politicians are to listen. Individual actions are an important part of the solution, but working with others can enable us to achieve far more.