We’re a group of people living in the Merri-bek area (formerly known as Moreland) who are working locally to take action on climate change. Our members have come together out of concern about the lack of meaningful political action on climate change, and a recognition that we need to take responsibility for our future. We believe that we need a rapid transition to a zero carbon society to prevent severe climate change that will have a devastating effect on our lives and those of future generations. Current scientific evidence indicates that to avoid this we need to stabilise atmospheric carbon at 300 parts per million, which is below the amount of carbon we currently have in the atmosphere. To achieve this we need to transition our energy supply as rapidly as possible to 100 per cent renewable energy.
Science indicates that for Australia our energy system needs to be zero carbon by 2035 if we are to meet the ‘well below 2 degrees and strive for 1.5 degrees‘ target set in Paris in 2015 at COP21.
Our objectives
Some Climate Action Moreland members at the St Kilda Human Sign which read ‘Our Future is in Our Hands.’
– To put pressure on political leaders to take serious action on climate change via activities such as protests, attending rallies and engaging in discussion with local politicians, and to show that there is a strong community support for serious action
– To provide a focus and outlet for residents wanting to take action
– To provide community education and awareness on climate change and what we can do about it on individual, local, national and even international levels
– To create networks with other community-based organisations as part of a broader, more coordinated environmental movement
Our organisation
Climate Action Merribek are just regular people from Brunswick, Coburg, Fawkner, Pascoe Vale and Glenroy – wanting action on climate change. We’re a non-profit group that is community based and not affiliated with any political party. We have monthly meetings to which any member of the community is welcome to attend. The group has a non-hierarchical structure, and decisions are reached democratically.
Working with communities
We have developed strategic partnerships with many of Melbourne’s climate action groups including Yarra, Darebin and Bayside to name but a few, and have good community bonds with both Friends of the Earth and The Wilderness Society. To date, we have hosted several community events and talks on climate change, with more to come. And we are developing an extensive community outreach program within Merri-bek, connecting with community groups and individuals to educate, inform and work together to form sustainable solutions.
Don’t live in Moreland?
See Environment Victoria List of active climate groups, Victorian Climate Action Network list, or the Climate Action Network Australia partner organisations to find a group you can work with.