Extinction Rebellion to protest off Findhorn beach tomorrow
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Local environmentalists will stage a protest in the sea tomorrow to highlight the need for urgent action on climate change.
Extinction Rebellion (XR) Forres and other concerned citizens are taking part in a socially-distanced wild swim while carrying placards bearing messages such as ‘Act Now or Swim Later’.
The event is being staged the day before US President Joe Biden’s Climate Summit on Thursday, to which 40 world leaders have been invited to take part online.
Biden's stated aim is to galvanise efforts by major economies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions ahead of the COP26 summit being hosted by the UK in Glasgow at the start of November.
His special presidential envoy for climate, John Kerry, has stated that the world’s 20 richest countries are collectively responsible for 81 per cent of the world’s CO2 emissions so need to take the lead.
Julia Tucknott of XR Forres said: "We cannot continue to deify growth at all costs in a world with finite resources.
"We are at a crisis point.
"Never before has our climate changed so rapidly.
"If we miss this chance to match our words with real action, the consequences will cause untold suffering to millions.
"Further global warming and our continued destruction of nature, means we are increasing our risk of future pandemics, not to mention coastal flooding, more severe and frequent wildfires and extreme weather events, and the loss of the ecosystems that sustain life."
Julia added: "Governments have a duty to protect their people but they are failing us.
"This is a time to be bold in charting a path to a better future for all – to invest in new green jobs, renewable energy, and clean public transport systems.
"It is time for our leaders to start walking their talk.
"Fine words without rapid, ambitious action won’t wash any more. We are watching you!"
A maximum of 15 socially distanced participants will take part in the swim off Findhorn's back shore at the end of Dunes Road at 12.30pm on Wednesday, April 21.
