Power of Communities in Climate Action 💪

A few months ago, I wrote about the power of nature to fight climate change.
Nature alone doesn’t need any help.

But nature + humans needs much more support.

This “more help” comes from individuals uniting — the power of communities. 💪

👉 What?

Communities are groups of individuals working together for a common interest.
Climate communities are passionate about protecting our planet.

👉 Indigenous peoples

At least 25% of the world’s ecosystems are managed by Indigenous peoples.
Yet only 17% of land and sea is officially protected due to corporate and government actions.
Indigenous peoples work sustainably with local ecosystems: growing food, protecting the environment, and safeguarding biodiversity.
They show us how we can rebuild together.

👉 Communities = knowledge

Communities educate.
They bring knowledge, expertise, and passion together.

👉 Power of communities 💪

Communities inspire, bring hope, and motivate.
They have a positive knock-on effect, encouraging more action.
Each individual has their own network to branch into.
They hold the power to advocate for bigger change and movements.

💪 Two examples

Swiss women took their government to court for inaction on climate change.
The European Court of Human Rights ruled in their favour, forcing Swiss government action.
Greta Thunberg has united young people worldwide to demand change.
Her movement gives a voice to those too young to vote.

💪 Bottom up

Many examples show climate inaction from governments and big corporates.
Real change often comes from the bottom up. This works because:

1. Communities have local knowledge of what will work.

2. Communities are passionate.

3. Communities are already taking action.

4. Each community can tailor actions to their needs.
   Local governments should collaborate with communities to move initiatives upward.

👉 The 30×30 framework

The 30×30 plan aims to protect 30% of the planet’s land and water by 2030.
This percentage should increase further.
Indigenous peoples and local communities are key to success.
However, conflicts can block conservation.
Positive change requires resolving conflict and maintaining open dialogue.

…And if you want to read more about what I do in the climate space, then please do check out my services.

Sources: Eco Guardian Organization, WFP, Reuters, LinkedIn, New Local, UNDP, ScienceDaily, CFR