“Verum, any updates from the COP26 summit in Glasgow?” said Orak. The 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties, better known as COP26, is a two-week conference, with almost 200 countries participating to discuss, share ideas and negotiate global warming issues.
“Yeah, there are plenty of updates but I find this particular update quite interesting,” said Verum, “On 8th November, the world observed the Global Day of Action for Climate Justice. Many, many people from all over the world marched to demand action against climate change.
Over 300 protests took place in countries like the Philippines, South Korea, Indonesia, the Netherlands, France, and so on. At least 100 protests took place in the United Kingdom itself.”
“Whoa, people really rallied, didn’t they?” said Scorch with glittering eyes. She wished she could have been a part of one of these marches.
“Yes! But the major action took place in Glasgow, the city in Scotland where the COP26 summit is being held,” said Verum, “At least 10,000 people took to the streets to demand more action against climate change. This march included people from various backgrounds such as indigenous people and climate activists.”
“But Verum, isn’t this the very topic of discussion at the COP26 Summit?” said a puzzled Felix.
“Yes, but questions have been raised on whether the conference is accessible or not,” said Verum, “For instance, the indigenous people from North and South America are on the frontline when it comes to the impacts of climate change. But they couldn’t join the conference and make their voices heard.”
She added, “If you remember, the conference has been described as ‘make or break’. This means that all the discussions here can either save our planet or destroy it further.
Everything possible must be done to restrict the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C otherwise it’ll be too late to save Planet Earth. But these protestors feel not enough is being done to achieve this crucial goal.”
“What’s the solution to this?” said Orak.
“Well, protesting and making your voices heard is one solution. Through this, people come together to put pressure on their governments and leaders. That way they will take stronger action against climate change,” said Verum.