Earth First Summer Gathering 2017: https://www.veggies.org.uk/event/earth-first-summer-gathering-2017/2017-08-09/
Earth First! uses different ways to talk about and act on environmental issues. They talk about problems in magazines like their Earth First! Journal, educating people and finding common ground with others who care about the environment. This is "discursive" because it involves using language to share information and ideas. They also use signs and speeches during protests to show why they're worried and what changes they want. This is part of their discursive actions. But Earth First! doesn't only talk; they also do things to directly protect nature. For example, they might sit in trees or block roads to stop activities that harm the environment. This is "non-discursive" because it involves physical actions to protect trees or animals. They might even plant trees or fix damaged areas, showing that actions can speak louder than words. Sometimes, they use strong language and bold actions to draw attention to urgent environmental issues. This is "polarizing" because it can create divisions and highlight problems in a powerful way. On the other hand, they also use "competing" strategies, like finding common ground and appealing to reason to work with others for environmental conservation. By using both talking and hands-on actions, Earth First! wants to make a positive impact on the environment and get people to care about nature.
YouTube: "What corporations can do about climate change" -Naomi Swickard
Earth First! is an environmental group that was started in the United States in 1980 with cofounder Dave Foreman. They care a lot about nature and believe in doing direct actions to protect the Earth. Direct actions mean they might participate in protests, tree-sitting, or other activities to stop things they think are hurting the environment. Earth First! thinks it's essential to focus on the Earth and the plants and animals living on it, not just on what people need. The people involved believe that everything in nature has its own value and should be protected. One thing they talk about is biocentrism. This means that all living things and ecosystems are important, not just humans. Earth First! also uses the term monkeywrenching, which refers to the direct acts of property destruction of places that are actively involved in disrupting activities they think are bad for the environment, like logging or mining (Hendry 2020). They don't believe in a strict hierarchy or having just one leader; instead, they work in small groups with their members having a lot of freedom. They share information through a magazine called the Earth First! Journal. While some people might not agree with their methods, Earth First! wants to bring attention to environmental problems and protect the planet's natural beauty and diversity.
Climate change discussions involve competing discourses, or different ways of talking about the issue. On one side of the climate change issue, scientists use evidence and facts to explain how human activities, like burning fossil fuels, contribute to rising temperatures. They focus on data, research, and urging people to take action. On the other side, there are skeptics who question the extent of human impact, emphasizing natural climate variations. These competing discourses create debates, with each side presenting its own evidence and arguments. Activists use emotional language, urging urgent action to prevent catastrophic consequences, while some policymakers may downplay concerns to avoid economic disruptions. The competing discourses influence public opinion, making it essential to critically evaluate information and consider various perspectives in the ongoing climate change conversation.
I personally think that individual people who are still skeptical about climate change and its effects are extremely misguided. At a certain point, one is not uneducated, but just too stubborn to be able to agree with any viewpoint that's not their own. On a larger scale, some corrupt corporations will do anything possible to discredit scientists in order to continue unsustainable manufacturing. This relationship between corporations, consumers, and the planet is not sustainable, and we need to make a change soon.
To combat climate change, both corporations and individuals play vital roles in making positive changes. Corporations, as major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, can adopt eco-friendly practices. This includes reducing carbon footprints by using renewable energy, improving energy efficiency in operations, and implementing sustainable supply chain practices. Companies can also invest in green technologies and advocate for policies that support environmental conservation. Individuals, on the other hand, can contribute through everyday actions. Simple steps like reducing energy consumption at home, using public transportation, or choosing eco-friendly products can make a significant impact. Supporting sustainable businesses and advocating for environmentally friendly policies can influence positive change on a broader scale. Additionally, individuals can engage in tree planting initiatives, community clean-ups, or participate in local environmental projects to contribute directly to climate mitigation efforts. Collaboration between corporations and individuals is key. Corporations should prioritize sustainable practices and transparency, while individuals can use their consumer power to support responsible businesses. Here is the link to a really awesome TED Talk by Naomi Swickard about what else corporations can do to help mitigate climate change: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kz82zB1Njww. By working together, we can create a collective force driving toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
Earth First Summer Gathering 2017. Veggies Catering Campaign. (2017, November 11). https://www.veggies.org.uk/event/earth-first-summer-gathering-2017/2017-08-09/
Hendry, J. (2020). Communication and the Natural World (Vol. 2). Strata Publishing Inc.
Swickard , N. (2017, November 16). What corporations can do about climate change | Naomi Swickard | TedxChamonix. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kz82zB1Njww