*Leading Green politicians to attend massive UK climate rallies
*World leaders called upon to seize opportunity for action on climate change
Green Party politicians, activists and members will be out in force this Sunday (21st September) to support the historic People’s Climate March (1), a global day of action that promises to be the largest climate rally in history (2).
The People’s Climate March is taking place on the eve of next week’s landmark climate summit, which will see world leaders gather in New York for emergency meetings called by UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon.
Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, and Dr Shahrar Ali, Deputy Leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, will join thousands of people on the streets of London this Sunday to help inspire the world’s leaders to take ambitious action on the climate crisis. Green Party Leader Natalie Bennett will take part in the concurrent Manchester rally.
The Greens are the only Westminster party committed to delivering an economic system that works for people and the planet.
Natalie Bennett, leader of the Green Party of England and Wales said:
“As leader of the Green Party I am proud to represent a political party that is so firmly committed to its goal of protecting our planet and its people. We want to see an end to the granting of subsidies to environmentally damaging practices such as fracking and a move-over to the use of renewable energy sources, creating new jobs in the process.
"What is so inspiring about this weekend’s events is that they show how in making these calls, we are not alone. People from across borders and from a whole range of backgrounds are being unified by a shared understanding of the need for action on climate change. We urge our world leaders to show similar levels of solidarity and agree a way forward that will reduce carbon emissions and build a more sustainable future for us all.”
Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, said:
"Public appetite for urgent climate action is swelling. I welcome the Prime Minister’s attendance at next week’s summit – but it’s not enough. He needs to bring vision, leadership and concrete commitments. We need to leave the vast majority of existing fossil fuels in the ground. We have a responsibility and I’m marching on Sunday because we have economically sound, fair, popular and reliable alternatives to polluting fossil fuels. I hope many of you will join us."
Dr Shahrar Ali, Deputy Leader of the Green Party, said:
“The New York Summit provides us with a unique opportunity. Our politicians must grasp the huge possibilities available to us for tackling the threat of climate change and building a new economic system that puts people and communities ahead of profit and consumption. The Green Party is inspired to bring about this change and if world leaders fail to listen to us today then our work continues tomorrow.”
1) http://peoplesclimate.org/global/
2) London is one of 11 cities hosting a major event this Sunday http://peoplesclimate.org/major-events/
3) http://peoplesclimate.org/london/