💡 Why engaging in our political system matters

Let’s think back to times when we have discovered that a once widely used substance was actually highly dangerous… Asbestos, CFCs, DDT, lead pipes, and cigarettes were all once prolifically used in a variety of contexts. 

Why are these products now used far less than they used to be, or not used at all? 

It’s because governments banned, or heavily regulated their use.

We didn’t rely on individuals or companies to decide to stop using them. Governments recognised the harm the substance was causing the community, and acted to protect the communities they represent. 

This wasn’t always without opposition - affected industry groups often lobbied hardto try and convince people and governments that the harms weren’t as bad as scientists said, and were often successful in delaying action - just as the fossil fuel industry is doing today. 

Political parties pitch what they think the public will vote for. Neither major party currently has a plan for significant emissions cuts before 2030, which doesn’t reflect the science that has told us for decades climate change is an urgent and existential issue. 

By showing politicians that enough people care, and that climate is a central issue, we can encourage all parties to take bolder steps on climate action! 

💥 Here are some tips to help you engage with politics:

🗳️ 1. Prepare to vote climate on May 3rd

Build a Ballot is providing resources to help people get election ready. They have built a tool that allows people to discover how their local candidates and parties are approaching the issues they care about, with a focus on the climate crisis. Their election tool, which is launching on Tuesday, involves a quiz and resources so you can create your own House of Representative and Senate ballot to take with you on voting day! 

🧑🏻‍💻 2. Write to your MP

We have almost 30 issue briefings and letter writing templates available on our website! These are all designed to help you learn about key policies and issues related to climate change, and provide a starting point for writing to your MP.

If you’re writing before the election, you could let your candidates know what you’re voting on. Or, you could send a letter after the election letting them know what you want them to achieve or push for in the new term of government. 

Rather do it with friends? Come along to our next MP Engagement event on May 13th! 

📢 3. Sign a petition or write a submission

Submissions are opportunities for individuals to voice their opinion on current proposals before government committees and other government bodies. They are really powerful, because every submission has to be read and considered. Our submissions table is updated weekly so you can see new opportunities to engage! Petitions offer a great quick action if you only have a short amount of time.

💚 4. Get your friends and family on board

Having conversations with your friends and family about climate change is one of the most effective things you can do. We’re much more likely to take action when someone we love and trust tells us an issue is important to them. In the lead up to the election, consider talking to the people around you about why climate change matters to you, and why it’s important to pay attention to government policy about climate action. 

You could also host a Climate Conversation and we will send a facilitator to run the session for you! Or, you could train as a facilitator if you’re keen to learn how to communicate effectively about climate change and be a climate leader in your community. 

Thank you to everyone who has participated in or supported our 10 days of climate action.