Act locally on climate change

Anyone can join or start a local climate action group, and it is one of the most effective ways to act towards combating climate change.

Stopping climate change requires political will, and the best way to ensure politicians take brave, bold steps into the future is to give them public support. We can create en environment where politicians have no choice but to take climate change. The more local climate groups there are, the easier this becomes.

Here are some useful links for:

• joining a group
• starting a group
• resourcing
• science links

Join a group

You can find climate action groups in your local area through this website. It includes a postcode finder and map for finding groups close to you. Events and information are listed by groups across Australia. You can sign up to the Climate Movement email list, receive updates from climate groups and participate in email discussion.

Friends of the Earth Australia comprises of member groups. While each group is independent, they operate according to a set of membership criteria. This localised model means groups can operate in ways that are more appropriate to their local needs and circumstances. Find out more about starting an FoE group on their website.

Start a group

The National Conservation Council provides great resources for starting your own climate action group. They have information about cyber-campaigning, tips on constructing groups and excellent resources for anyone interested in campaigning on environmental issues. You can also sign up to participate in the community climate challenge.

Resources for groups

The Change Agency Education and Training Institute Inc is an independent activist education intiative. They work with community organisers and activists in the Australia Pacific, helping them achieve social and environmental change.

"Modest suggestions for anyone trying to save the world" – the title says it all. This site provides a wealth of information for anyone interested in campaign strategy, authored by Chris Rose (a long-time environmental campaigner). There is a newsletter you can sign up to, as well as fantastic examinations of activists and social movements.

The EDO provides legal advice on environmental issues. Anyone considering a legal challenge should contact the EDO. They also provide advice on how to write submissions, and other ways to feed into government and planning processes.

This project aims to understand how the internet is being used to build the climate movement in Australia, and how online tools might be used to greater effect. The project invites you to participate in an online questionnaire. This survey is an initiative of the Change Agency, Friends of the Earth Australia and Greenpeace Australia Pacific, and supported by the Reichstein Foundation and Electronic Community Networking Association.

Science links

This is a great portal where you can access hundreds of sites with information on climate change.

This website provides essential tools that enable government, industry and the community to understand the likely magnitude and impacts of climate change in Australia.

CSIRO scientists have been substantial contributors to the growing body of knowledge about climate change in the region and globally. This site contains published, peer-reviewed scientific research from Australia's peak body for Science and Research.