My First Year with Greenpeace

As its January, a time for reflection, resolutions and all that jazz I thought I’d write a few lines on my first year “getting active” with Greenpeace.

I decided to “get active” because I wanted to do more for our planet, I mean signing a few petitions and putting out the recycling every fortnight is important but can only get you so far!

I’ve always been interested in Greenpeace, I remember telling my mum when i was very little that I was going to go on the Greenpeace boat and save the whales. Didn’t quite pan out that way but I have always kept an eye on what Greenpeace have been up to and on the whole I’ve liked what I’ve seen!

I was nervous when I went to the first meeting, partly because I wasn’t quite sure what to expect  but also because I was slightly worried that two weeks down the line I’d find myself chained to a railing somewhere, placard in hand, without really knowing how I got there :S

But my fears were unfounded Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and really enthusiastic about helping you to get involved in a way thats right for you.

I’ve had loads of great opportunities to take part in events and actions including training, the Canterbury climate fair, and actions related to campaigns.  I’ve met some really interesting people, had some great conversations and learnt so much

There have been so many successful campaigns this year including those targeting Mattel and the tuna industry. Its been great fun to get involved, I love the humour and creativity in the campaigns, as well as the security of knowing that it’s all backed up and justified by research. It’s also been really empowering to be involved in things that are making a real difference to our world! And the best thing is that you can get as involved as you want to. There is never any pressure to do anything you don’t feel comfortable doing.  So if, like me, you don’t fancy scaling buildings or dressing up then you don’t have to, there’s still so many other important things to do!

Overall my time in Greenpeace in 2011 has been such a positive experience and I’m so glad I went along to that first meeting! 2012 looks like its set to be just as much fun! We’ve got a few local events planned and will be going down to Canterbury again! And I’m sure Greenpeace HQ has got some great campaigns in the pipeline

So if reading this has made you think you might like to get involved too then come have a drink with us at a meeting some time! It would be great to see you there and I promise we won’t chain you to anything!