IF there is one thing this last year has shown us, it is that we cannot rely on the government or global forces to bring a halt to climate change.

Last year’s COP26 climate conference was a damp squib, with global leaders descending on Glasgow only to emerge with a series of weak, watered-down pledges failing to phase out coal, reduce subsidies for fossil fuel companies and protect forests.

At present, it is unlikely the top-down institutions of government will deliver on tackling the climate crisis. Only a series of widespread, collective, bottom-up movements have the power to force real change.

We believe local newspapers have a real, tangible role in mobilising this kind of collective action, in facilitating debates and discussions and pushing a grassroots effort to tackle the defining challenge of our age.

It is for this reason the Camden New Journal and Islington Tribune are organising a special inter-borough climate summit in collaboration with Islington Climate Centre on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 12 at Conway Hall in Holborn – our very own North London COP.

We have organised a programme of speakers – those working in politics, law, the media and education as well as activists who have taken the fight to the streets.

They will tell us about the steps they are taking to tackle climate inaction, denial and delay, and what we can do to get involved.

But our most important participants will be those in the audience: the aim is to create a public forum for debate, where ideas can be tested, shared and ultimately put into practice.

These discussions will be paired with performances and opportunities to explore local, eco-friendly businesses along with children’s activities.

On the back of the hottest summer on record, urgent action is needed. So please save the date – be part of our climate change festival next month.

Our conference producer is the Tribune’s news editor Anna Lamche, working in collaboration with Islington Climate Centre, a vibrant community hub that aims to showcase solutions and connect ideas and projects that address the climate and ecological emergency.
Anna can be reached on anna@islingtontribune.co.uk