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Protestors and local groups march through Sydney to mark the 
International Day of Action on Climate Change. The walk against global 
warming coincides with a 12-day conference in Montreal, Canada, which 
will discuss climate change measures and future international action 
when the Kyoto Protocol expires at the end of 2012.

Protestors and local groups march through Sydney to mark the International Day of Action on Climate Change. The walk against global warming coincides with a 12-day conference in Montreal, Canada, which will discuss climate change measures and future international action when the Kyoto Protocol expires at the end of 2012.

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When thinking of confronting the evils of pollution, poverty, racial and sexual prejudice and social injustice, it seems impossible to know where to start. But there is a logical and effective place to begin - our own backyards. If we all take care of our own backyards, the greater community itself will become healthier.

Local groups have a lot of power when it comes to achieving environmental goals for the whole community, so why not join or start one?

Where do I start?


Find out what's happening in your local area. For example, what industries exist nearby? What legislation is in place to control polluting activities? What sort of council governs local decision-making processes? Discover if there are problems in any of these areas. If there are, work out how the individual can influence or change policy makers.

What can I do?


Besides forming a local group, write letters to express your opinion to governments and businesses. Never underestimate the power of letter writing as an effective communication tool.

Change will not begin until you make it happen. Learn more about local groups