Last week six activists from the Waltham Forest Network took non-violent direct action against Shell as part of the Save the Arctic campaign. We all had our own reasons for being involved but, controversially, my motivation had little to do with polar bears.
Save the Arctic is the latest campaign from Greenpeace, and the most ambitious in recent times. Last Monday, one of the campaign's biggest direct actions took place. It was aimed at Shell, who plan to start drilling for oil in the Arctic. Activists in London and Edinburgh shut down 78 Shell stations in protest at the global oil giant's decision.
We worked in small teams, and each team took the name of an Arctic animal whose home could be destroyed if Shell go ahead with their plans. They included Team Polar Bear, Team Arctic Fox, Team Narwhal, Team Snowy Owl and Team Walrus. I was part of Team Walrus, but deep down I actually wanted to be in a different team – Team Human.
For the first time scientists have made a firm link between recent weather events and climate change. According to the Met, this year's heavy rain has been linked to a “particularly disturbed jet stream”. Research suggests that this jet stream could be linked to reducing amounts of Arctic sea ice.
And lets remind ourselves of the effects of this rain outdoor events have been cancelled, homes have been destroyed, and lives have been lost.
On the other extreme, the Sahel region of West Africa is suffering its third drought in less than a decade. Families are going hungry and over a million children are suffering from malnutrition.
Climate change isn't something that is going to happen in the future, it's happening now. And although oil exploration in the Arctic is a very real threat to wildlife, it's symbolic of our continuing addiction to fossil fuels, which threatens humans all around the world.
It is perverse that Shell see the melting ice caps as a business opportunity. They're the environmental equivalent of ambulance chasers – they see financial exploitation in death and disaster.
We need to look at ways to end our addiction to fossil fuels and move towards renewables. But instead Shell seem seem intent on digging for more oil, regardless of the risks. But on behalf of Team Human I will do all I can to make them stop. Will you join me?
If the Arctic matters to you then make a difference by:
>> Signing your name to the Arctic Scroll
>> Joining us for a drink at the Rose and Crown to hear about local campaigns
>> Finding a greener way to travel
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