Dear John
If the past year has shown us anything, it’s that the solutions to huge global problems often lie in local communities. When it comes to tackling climate breakdown and improving life in your neighbourhood, joining up with like-minded people is vital.
This month we’ve launched a new digital tool, called Near me, to help you make a meaningful difference where you live. It shows you what you can do in your area for the good of the planet.
You can use Near me to find out if your local authority is on track to reach its climate targets. You can see how many green jobs could be created in your area, and connect with local climate groups already taking action.
Just enter your postcode and we’ll show you how you can make your community more climate friendly.
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10 EASY WAYS TO LEND BEES A HELPING HAND
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Bees are in trouble, with around 13 of the UK’s species now extinct. With some simple changes, our gardens and windowsills could become welcome havens and vital fast-food takeaways for bees.
From growing plants that provide the nectar and pollen bees need to ditching pesticides, find tips to turn a green patch of any size into a positively buzzing paradise.
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CARDIFF FRIENDS OF THE EARTH FIGHTS AGAINST INCINERATORS
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Up and down the UK, incinerators are being given the green light by councils. With low-income and minority communities bearing the brunt of the pollution coming from these wood-and-waste-burning plants, one city decided to fight back.
Hear how local campaigners battled to challenge a proposed incinerator in Cardiff.
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FRIENDS OF THE EARTH'S FIGHT AGAINST THE MOZAMBIQUE GAS PROJECT
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Last week, we were given permission to take the UK government to court for financing a climate-wrecking gas development in Mozambique. It was the news we’d been waiting for.
But on Monday, in an unexpected twist, the gas giant behind the project, Total, announced that it had declared “force majeure” – unforeseeable circumstances that prevent it from fulfilling contracts – due to the escalating security situation in Mozambique. It has since withdrawn all staff and suspended its work, but has not yet abandoned the project.
As it stands, what this means for the UK government’s involvement is unclear.
There are concerns that Total will leave the country without compensating locals for the damage done so far or fulfilling its obligations to businesses. Working with JA! (Friends of the Earth Mozambique), we will be monitoring the situation on the ground. We’ll keep you updated on any developments.
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THE WRITING'S ON THE WALL FOR #EARTHDAY
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To mark #EarthDay last week, we raised awareness of the role our metro mayoral candidates can play in tackling the climate emergency. We shared our #ClimateActionPledge message across the country – with illuminated projections on landmark buildings, from Tees Valley to the West of England.
You can make sure we reach as many people as possible by sharing a short video capturing last week’s projections on Facebook.
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JOIN FRIENDS OF THE EARTH FOR GROUNDSWELL 2021
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To change everything will need everyone.
Since 1971, Friends of the Earth has won landmark campaigns and has stood up against the giants, no matter the odds. From 11 to 13 June, Groundswell 2021 will bring together experts, activists and communities from across the climate justice movement for a weekend of talks, workshops, celebration and action.
You can join us for free online this year to reconnect, share our best stories, get real about building a movement that represents everyone, and plan local action for global climate justice.
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HOW DO YOU FEEL NOW ABOUT FLYING IN THE FUTURE?
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With travel now somewhere on the horizon and the weather warming up, some of us are thinking about holidays – potentially even abroad. But we’ve also seen what a difference reduced air traffic can make to our environment and air quality.
What are your thoughts? Has the pandemic changed how you look at holidays and international flights? If you can spare a few minutes for a short survey, we’d love to hear from you. Your answers will help inform our climate campaigning work on aviation and air pollution.
Do you think you’ll fly less overall in the future?
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PICK UP A PLANET PROTECTORS PACK FOR LITTLE NATURE-LOVERS
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We need the next generation onboard from the start if we’re going to beat the climate and nature crises. The Planet Protectors pack for 5 to 11-year-olds teaches kids about taking care of our planet and shaping its future.
Your pack will include lots of activities so young nature-lovers can:
- Plant wildflower seeds and watch the bees come buzzing.
- Put up their own 10 Top Tips to Save the World poster.
- Get creative with plastic-free stickers.
- Busy themselves with a fun activity handbook – perfect for indoors or out.
If you’ve donated for a pack already, thanks so much. Why not treat someone to an extra pack or send another pint-sized planet-lover a special gift?
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Take care,
Aleanna Shaughnessy
Supporter Relations Manager
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