For environmentalists, the G8 typically represents all that is bad in the world. A group of elite industrialized countries meet behind closed-doors to plot the path for unfettered economic development and ignore their far-reaching environmental consequences. These 8 countries represent just fifteen per cent of the world's population but 45 per cent of its global emissions. It's no wonder then that the environment is swept under the carpet.
Environmental protesters often hold out the hope that 'things will be different this time', but when they protest, they hold placards and chant slogans that generally voice outrage that such a boys club exists in the first place. Environmentalists aren't offered an ear and they don't shout anything all that constructive in response. It's a pretty big waste of time for all involved.
But this week's G20 in London offers a new opportunity to change this destructive dialogue and make a real environmental difference. The more 20 countries attending represent 80 per cent of emissions and Brown and Obama have hinted that merging economic and environmental agendas may provide the best changes of making progress on either. With this expanded number of countries, affected disproportionately by the credit and climate crisis, there is a real opportunity to reach an agreement on green spending.
This is an opportunity to advance the green agenda second only to Copenhagen and it means that this year, more than ever, environmentalists have a good reason to make their voices heard. This year, environmentalists can protest productively.
If you are interested in showing your support, there are a number of activities over the next couple of days. You can find them here. And of course, it would only be responsible to give the reminder that the best message you can send it a clear and peaceful one
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