don’t change that lightbulb

As we approach more and more scientific certainty about the impacts of anthropological climate change, local climate action groups are forming.  They are likeminded citizens who want to ‘do something’ and form these groups to attempt to encourage government action.

I don’t have a problem with the intent of these groups – I think it’s wonderful that people care enough to ‘do something’.  But is what they are doing effective?  Is it worth their time and effort?

The greatest changes in human history have occurred through revolution.  Changes have been violent, undemocratic or have resulted in political upheaval.  When the society really cares, change is manufactured through revolution.  When this doesn’t happen, societies fail.  No one on Easter Island staged a revolution to save the last trees even though they surely saw the results coming.

What is happening now in grassroots climate action is not revolution.  In fact, its not even upheaval.  It is an entire movement which makes people feel good for making minute changes which won’t solve a problem.  Change your lightbulbs!  Catch public transport!  Buy your groceries in a reusable bag!

Nero fiddles while Rome burns.  These climate action groups must do more than talk, and more than “inform the masses”.  Festivals achieve nothing.  Musicians saying they care – nothing. Actors reminding us to sort our waste – nothing.  There are so many reasons that these actions achieve virtually nothing that each requires a separate post (upcoming).

We need to change our capitalist lifestyles.  We need to stop being sucked into media campaigns about how an iPhone or Twitter will change your life.  It might change it but it won’t change the way we live. Unless your iPhone reminds you to repossess democracy.  Our politicians represent us, the people. If they won’t change their politics by themselves, make them do it.  Throw them out. Reclaim democracy.

Don’t write letters to your member of parliament – speak to them.  If they don’t represent your needs, stop voting for them.  If you think they are more interested in bowing down to big industry, find an alternate candidate.  Remind them every day the reasons that you voted for them and that represent you.

Don’t change your lightbulbs, someone is making a lot of money out of your greenwash guilt and the power to keep them on is still coming from burning coal. The biggest difference you can make is to choose a vegan lifestyle, consume only what you need (not what you want), and to buy second hand.  These are the changes you can make and you don’t need to pay anyone to make them – imagine that!  Eat food that you grow, food that you find.  Wear clothes that people give you or you make yourself.  Fashion is meaningless.

‘Support local businesses’ the well-meaning masses say.  Support them do what?  What are they achieving that is so important? ‘Buy handmade’ they cry! Why?  Make it yourself.  Learn to do it yourself or muddle through until you’ve got is sorted.  ‘Buy organic’ say celebrity chefs and nutritionists.  Why?  Grow your own, know what goes on it. Don’t put anything on your plants that you wouldn’t eat yourself.

The green movement is a greenwash.  It’s trendy to wear your hemp-bamboo blazers and buy special makeup that will save the world.

Save the world by eating and promoting veganism.  Save the world by making the distinction between wants and needs.  Reclaim democracy and your ability to think and make decisions for yourself.  Do the right thing.