Climate activism during lockdown: ways to stay involved without leaving home.
With social distancing measures putting a stop to many activities across the globe, you may be forgiven for thinking that climate activism is one of them - but there are still many ways we can save the planet from the comfort (and safety) of our own homes.
Online protests are a growing form of activism, and can be incredibly powerful for uniting people across the world. With protests such as the global youth climate strikes moving online, and internet connectivity at a record high, here are some ways you can tackle the climate crisis virtually:
1. Liking, sharing and retweeting charities and grassroots organisers when they’re campaigning on climate change issues. This seemingly small action can be amazingly powerful for spreading the word about important campaigns, and has proven to be a highly effective form of digital activism. Similarly, many organisations are continuing to run campaigns that you can show your support for digitally. Adding your name to petitions and emailing your MP can really help build momentum behind climate action.
3. Virtual protests and strikes: whilst this may seem like a bizarre concept, virtual strikes can be highly effective for bringing attention to important issues. For example, Fridays for Future recently encouraged people to carry out digital strikes by using hashtags and posting photos and videos of yourself publicly supporting the campaign. This digital approach allows you to show solidarity with important causes, and can garner the same level of attention and support that physical presence would bring – and it isn’t affected by social distancing!
4. Webinars and digital events: movements such as Climate Interactive and Greta Thunberg’s ‘Talks For Future’ are hosting a number of climate-related online talks and events, providing key information related to the climate crisis. These also bring like-minded climate enthusiasts together, enabling the sharing of information and details for getting involved in digital activism. Websites such as We Don’t Have Time and If Not Us Then Who give information about community-based and indigenous climate action, as well as climate events, volunteering opportunities and other ways to get involved with climate action.
5. Want to host your own? If you’re part of a climate action group already, there’s no need to stop meeting. Online video and messaging tools such as Zoom, Whereby, and Slack can help you stay in touch during lockdown. And there’s never been a better time to start that reading or discussion group you’ve been thinking about! Check out this great (if a little weighty) document setting out all the different ways to keep your activism going online.
