Is it possible for the world to move beyond fossil fuels?
Australia says YES, with the launch of ‘Moving Planet’ Day.
350.org is the world’s largest international grassroots movement for climate action. Remember 2009’s International Day of Climate Action – the most widespread day of political action in history with 5245 actions in 181 countries?
This Saturday (24th September) 350.org is kicking it up yet another notch with Moving Planet. What’s more, Australia will be first out of the blocks, starting the wave of international action at Bondi Beach, followed by more than 25 events across the country from Sydney to Perth.
Australia is poised to take its first real steps on climate change, with our politicians locked in fierce debate over the carbon price legislation. For us, the timing of this worldwide day of positive action could not be better!
Here are just a few highlights from around the country:
NSW: At Bondi Beach we’ll be taking to the skies at 8am with hundreds of Yes kites. Bring your family, friends, a surf board and sun hat and join hundreds of Sydneysiders for the very first of the thousands of Moving Planet events around the world.
VIC: The Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC) are planning a large event at Melbourne’s Docklands, with people converging from across the city on bikes, roller skates, trams and boats to form a giant human sign. And for those in the Yarra Valley, check out this beautiful festival along the Warburton Trail.
ACT: Starting in Garema Place, Canberra folks can look forward to three events in one – speakers and music followed by a fun ride to Parliament House, where riders will gather together to form the shape of a giant bike.
SA: At Adelaide’s Rymill Park event, participants are asked to come on bikes, skateboards or on foot and join a street parade for clean energy.
WA: In Perth, there will be a sustainable festival in Northbridge and a Rally for Renewables at the Murray Street Mall. Beyond Perth there are events happening as far afield as Medina.
TAS: Hobart is hosting a bike ride from Cornelian Bay foreshore ending at a rally in the city.
QLD: Those is central Brisbane can join the Wheels of Change bike ride. Up in Cairns there’ll be a fun action and photo stunt.
With more events being added right up till the last minute, head to the Moving Planet website to search for all events near you. And if there’s nothing nearby, there’s still time to register a new event.
The website is loaded with resources from an activist guide to instructions on how to take a great photo. Download visuals to promote the movement including stencils for t-shirts and stickers. Or get quick ideas on creating a last minute event then make use of the “Moving Planet” email organiser to spread the word. 350.org have provided all you need to make a difference and be a part of the movement!
More than 150 countries are expected to take part in “Moving Planet” day events from Pacific islands to European capitols, hundreds of thousands will join creative rallies to show that people around the world are ready for clean energy and climate solutions.
“The planet has been stuck for too long with governments doing nothing about the biggest problem we’ve ever faced,” said Bill McKibben, the founder of 350.org, the international climate campaign that is coordinating the demonstrations. “This is the day when people will get the earth moving, rolling towards the solutions we need.”
So, bring your enthusiasm, your friends and a commitment to Get the Planet Moving on Climate Change!
