Extinction Rebellion: North London Uprising

Climate change campaigners mobilise in Haringey

By Luchia Robinson

Climate change campaign group Extinction Rebellion brought their collective awareness movement to the streets of Haringey, for a weekend of action, last month.

The campaigners from Haringey, Camden, Barnet, Enfield and Islington came together for the North London Uprising– a series of zero waste events, workshops, talks and musical performances.

Hundreds of people took part in the activities, which were based in two main locations: Downhills Park– the centre for discussions and training; and Turnpike Lane, where public engagement and staged actions were focused.

A parade along Green Lanes also brought attention to the message of climate change breakdown.

“According to social science, 3.5% of the population are needed to be mobilised to achieve system change,” said Extinction Rebellion activist, Jessica Peverell.

“To achieve this, we need to aim high and work with our neighbouring boroughs– together we have the strength, numbers and experience to make our voices heard.”

Uprising team member, Jen K L, added: “Tottenham has especially polluted air, even for London.

“A very small percentage of Tottenham residents are car owners, and yet vehicle emissions are stunting the growth of its children’s lungs. This is a microcosm of the compounding threats to health that all of us face the world over.

“Whilst we’re fortunate to be close to the lovely River Lea and water reservoirs, our location means parts of Tottenham will be at higher risk of being affected by flooding as a direct result of climate change.”

Haringey Council declared a climate emergency in March this year, pledging to become carbon neutral by 2050 (this date is intended to be brought closer), and taking steps to address key issues, including committing £2 million of the £14.4m Sustainable Transport Works Plan towards the promotion of sustainable methods of transport around the borough.

Leader of Haringey Council, Cllr Joseph Ejiofor said: “While we may not always agree with some of the ways Extinction Rebellion choose to share their message, it is a message that we broadly encourage, promote and support.

“Action on the climate needs to be taken, and it needs to be taken now.”

Members of Extinction Rebellion say they are keen to work with Haringey councillors to lobby the government into taking immediate action.

Jessica Peverell said: “There is an urgent need to raise awareness. The government failed to educate the general public on environmental issues and consequently, many people don’t know about the existential threat climate change poses.”