Written by PhD student Emmeline Smith from SCENARIO DTP
There has been a cascade of information pouring out of COP28 and I find myself, like others, feeling pessimistic about the progress made. However, I have to remind myself to be optimistic as there are victories in the climate discussions that have been over shadowed by more negative press.
It is positive that these discussions are taking place and that so many people care about climate change, with a record 100,000 people visiting COP this year. If this was 10-15 years ago, many of the less effective policies and discussions that have caused comment wouldn’t have been deemed news worthy. Today those attending COP both on the ground and digitally are passionate about climate change and are holding governments accountable for the decisions they have made.
If you are feeling frustrated by the lack of action following COP28 then here are a few climate actions you can take into your own hands:
- Become a member of an environmental group: there are many organisations operating in Reading like Friends of the Earth or Green Peace. UoR also has an Environmental Community which you can check out here.
- Change up you eating habits: a plant-based diet can both reduce your carbon footprint and make cooking more fun as you try new recipes and foods.
- Join the ‘Do UoR bit’: log your climate action and earn rewards for doing so.
Importantly, it’s okay to take a break. If the news about climate change is starting to get overwhelming, take some time for yourself, turn off social media and take the opportunity to get lost in nature.
