2021 was one of the most important years that the planet has ever had.
From the good, the bad and the ugly, there is no denying that a lot has happened. As we tentatively take the first steps into the New Year, it is time to look back and celebrate the environmental battles that were won and learn from the ones that were lost.
To me, the most prominent thing to happen in 2021 was COP26 in Glasgow.
This UN Climate Conference caused quite a stir across the world as thousands flocked to Scotland to take part within the summit, and build momentum on the streets surrounding it.
This time was full off huge positives, such as the extremely successful ‘People’s day of mass mobilisation’, when around 100,000 people marched through the streets of Glasgow demanding Climate Action.
And within the conference, there was progress towards the steady phase out of coal.
However the summit was denounced as the most inaccessible in its history due to the lack of inclusion of the youth, indigenous peoples and those from the global South – all the voices that are key to turning the tide on Climate change.
As a result, limited progress was made.
Recently, the highly controversial Cambo Oil Field project in the North Sea, has been paused.
This is a huge win as it highlights the impact that strong, resilient campaigning can have.
Despite this, all is not finished yet, and pressure will need to remain on those involved (Shell, British Government) from campaigners to stop this project once and for all.
Sadly, this is just one of 40 new oil and gas projects that are set to be given the ‘Green light’ by 2025, despite the British Government knowing that to limit global temperatures to 1.5 degrees of warming, all fossil fuel projects must be scrapped.
Another positive outcome of 2021 was that the Environment Act has now been passed as law.
After years of campaigning, this new act includes binding targets to halt species loss and deforestation.
This also includes establishing an environmental watchdog and laws to tackle single use items.
Across the world, we saw time and time again, the amazing impact that non violent direct action and persistent campaigning can have.
From the farmers’ protests in India being successful and the Keystone XL oil and gas Pipeline being halted over in Canada and the US.
Overall, 2021 has been a year of mixed results.
As mentioned, there have been so many significant ‘wins’ which have not just had a positive outcome, but have also set a president for what can be achieved by the power of collective action.
However, as I write this, we have had our warmest New Year on record and overall, a positively balmy festive period.
Over in Colorado, wild fires have raged, extreme droughts have plagued East Africa and ‘once in 100 years floods’ have devastated areas of Europe.
These are just a few of the extreme weather events we have seen in 2021. The impacts of the climate crisis are ever worsening and destroying more livelihoods, communities and ecosystems each year.
With all this in mind, 2022 is looking set to be another year of critical action from both individuals and politicians – everyone will be needed to make a difference.