This weekend was our Shell Weekend of Protest and we talked to lots of Shell customers, passers-by and employees (and I don't mean the forecourt owners/managers). And I was left astounded by the level of support for creating an Arctic Reserve. I normally work to 1 in 10 passers-by in our area agreeing with us. This weekend it was definitely more like 8 in 10.
The idea of protecting the Arctic seemed to resonate with nearly everyone we met whether because of its haunting beauty, its unique and fragile ecosystems, or its role in regulating the climate. Everyone had a reason for working to protect this area.
The other first is the number of people who have come forward to offer help in any way they can - I have had an artist offering to build some artwork for us, a poet interested in running a poetry competition on the Arctic in local schools, and a taxi driver called Tony (pictured above) who is going to display the Stop Shell posters in all his cabs. All great ideas we love.
Back at home, the news was showing people going mad over Anori, a very cute little polar bear born in a German Zoo. Apparently she has millions of fans already - but I think she would probably prefer a bigger home - say an Arctic Reserve protected against oil pollution.
The protests at Shell garages will be continuing for the next couple of weeks including week days – if you live near a Shell garage in SW London and can spare an hour or so over the next few weeks get in touch by email marialopez74@gmail.com or text 07739 736579.
And we love to hear and share your ideas about what we can do locally to save the Arctic – as so far they’ve all been fantastic. Finally for more pictures from our two days of campaigning please visit the Richmond & Kingston Greenpeace Facebook page.
Maria is the coordinator of Richmond & Kingston Greenpeace
Greenpeace volunteers are organising peaceful protests at Shell petrol stations across the UK. If you'd like to join a protest please visit the Greenpeace Getactive webpages, contact your nearest network coordinator, attend the next meeting, volunteer to help out or simply turn up on the day.
If there's not yet much happening near you, then why not download your own Stop Shell poster, display one in your window, on the noticeboard at work, or in the back of your Taxi.
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