The UK faces a growing climate and nature emergency. Yet most people have never been fully briefed on what it means for our lives, our economy and our future.
A new film from the National Emergency Briefing sets out the risks facing the nation – and the credible, positive responses available. The film is being shown along with opportunities for collective reflection, dialogue and civic imagination in response to the realities of climate and ecological breakdown. You can see a trailer below:
There are screenings happening all over the country, including 3 in Birmingham in the coming weeks:
Sunday 7th June 3pm at MAC, Cannon Hill Park (just a few spaces left) followed by a a short open discussion about what it means for our community and what we can do locally. Organised by MAC and Civic Square. – it sounds like it went well!
This Saturday (13th June) 4:30pm at Old Print Works, Balsall Heath (tickets) The organisers will be inviting local MPs and councillors, and are optimistic that they will join with constituents for this important discussion about our future. Organised by XR Brum.
Tuesday 16th June 3pm at Signing Tree Ladywood (tickets) followed by a Neighbourhood Supper Club from 4pm with opportunities to continue conversations emerging following the screening in a supportive environment; sharing a meal, grounding into what is already strong in our neighbourhood(s), and discovering more about practical organising on the ground. Organised by Civic Square.
If you’re concerned about the climate, and feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone! These screenings (and especially the discussion afterwards) will be a good opportunity to connect with like-minded people and hear about what can be done in our communities and at government level.
Take Action
A Petition to Parliament created by Chris Packham calls on the government to ‘hold a UK-wide briefing on climate and nature risks’. The petition has already passed the 10,000 signatures needed for an official response, if it can gain 100,000 it may be debated in Parliament.
An Early Day Motion has been tabled in Parliament and is open for signatures by MPs. EDMs are a way for Mps to show support for an issue across parties, outside of government business. EDM 93 calls on the Government to screen a prime-time televised emergency briefing, and to and to introduce emergency legislation, investment and public engagement commensurate with the scale and urgency of the crisis.
80 MPs from different parties have already signed, but none from Birmingham or neighbouring constituencies. You can write to your MP asking them to sign the EDM and raise the issue in Parliament. EDMs do not often progress to become law, but this is a helpful way to raise the issue and demonstrate broad support.
Peace Hub is sharing this film and the screenings, as a positive way to engage with the climate and nature emergency. We were not involved in making the film or organising the screenings – please contact the organisations above with any queries about individual events.
That said, we’re always happy to have a conversation about these issues and how you can get involved!