Blog post imported from cCc due to site revamp!


“We should never abandon the vision of a compassionate society and a compassionate world.” – Kjell Magne Bondevik

This content is directed towards Climate Organizations. I formulated and shared these personal ideas and suggestions in 2017, however I am now presenting them again directed towards Climate Leadership and Organizations.

(Also note that since this was written some time ago if you visit just about every Climate Organization now they have detailed guidelines and strict but caring terms addressing these recommendations and more, especially the Climate Reality Project, The Sunrise Movement and Third Act which are truly humanistic Climate Organizations.)

Having attended numerous Climate Webinars and Climate Organizational meetings in recent years, I would like to propose some suggestions and ideas, with the permission of the organizers and leaders. If not, please be aware that you are reading this of your own accord and can discontinue at any time.

Some recommendations for Climate Orgs meetings:

1. Acknowledge at each meeting those who have lost their lives due to our Climate Emergency. While this may seem unconventional, it is essential to consider that more attendees are joining these meetings due to the direct impact of the Climate Emergency in their lives. I have witnessed firsthand individuals attending meetings who have lost two family members as a result of our shared Climate Emergency. Al Gore serves as an excellent example of compassion in this regard, as he personally addresses those who have experienced such losses, either in small groups or individually.

2. Recognize and acknowledge those who attend but may not be able to actively participate due to busy schedules or are caring for individuals with disabilities which require constant attention. We should be sensitive to the various circumstances of attendees, as some may be attending on tight schedules, while others may have valid reasons preventing their active participation. The Sunrise Movement sets an admirable standard in inclusivity and empathy, particularly regarding this matter.

3. Host regular mental health check-in sessions, either bi-weekly or monthly to provide a space for members and guests to express their climate anxieties, grief, or related issues. The Climate Mobilization has made significant strides in this area by organizing Climate Awakening meetings. These sessions could be segmented based on leadership or membership levels and could be facilitated by professional psychologists or invited experts.

4. Respond promptly to all received communications, including questions, concerns, comments, suggestions, or ideas. It can be incredibly frustrating to reach out to someone or an organization and wait for several days or weeks for a response. Responding in a timely manner is a sign of respect and consideration for those initiating contact. I learned the importance of this point from an article written by Daisaku Ikeda, titled “Human Revolution novels.”

By promptly addressing inquiries, you may discover valuable suggestions or find that individuals reaching out are going through traumatic situations and seek your guidance. TH!rd-Act excels in this aspect, always striving to accommodate its members and their needs for growth, making it an ideal climate organization for older individuals to engage with.

5. Ensure that organizational climate or other meetings do not become platforms for self-promotion, comparing knowledge, seeking recognition, or looking down upon others, especially those who may be less aware of the issues at hand. We convene to foster each other’s well-being and work towards an extinction-free sustainable future, with a particular emphasis on our children and young adults. These gatherings should also serve as an opportunity to discuss the removal of individuals from leadership positions in politics and other domains, including banks, who hinder progress and whose agendas primarily support fossil fuels and unethical agri-businesses. Our biodiversity, animal species, children, and young adults deserve capable leadership and genuinely concerned, mature adults. There is no room for inflated egos and arrogance as we roll up our sleeves because we mean business, so to speak.

6. Cultivate an environment of collaboration, inclusivity, and mutual learning. Encourage participants to openly and respectfully share their expertise, insights, and experiences. Highlight the significance of collective efforts and the recognition that everyone possesses valuable contributions. By establishing a safe and supportive space that values and respects diverse perspectives, we can enhance problem-solving capabilities and foster innovation within our organization. An exemplary implementation of this approach can be observed in the practices of 350.org, which promotes the exchange of strategies and mutual learning among local groups.

7. Incorporate regular education and training sessions within the organization to ensure that members stay informed about the latest climate science, policy developments, and effective advocacy strategies. This can be done through webinars, workshops, or guest speaker series. By empowering members with knowledge, they can become more effective climate advocates and contribute meaningfully to the organization’s goals. The Climate Reality Project, founded by Al Gore, offers extensive training programs to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to address the climate crisis.

8. Engage with and support local communities disproportionately affected by climate change. Prioritize partnerships with grassroots organizations and community leaders to ensure that the voices and needs of marginalized communities are amplified and addressed. This can involve organizing community workshops, providing resources and assistance, or advocating for policy changes that benefit these communities. The Indigenous Environmental Network is an example of an organization that centers the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous communities in their climate justice work.

9. Encourage and facilitate youth engagement in climate activism and decision-making processes. Recognize the passion, creativity, and urgency that young people bring to the movement and provide platforms for their voices to be heard. This can include establishing youth-led committees or mentorship programs, creating opportunities for young activists to speak at events, or actively involving them in strategic planning and decision-making. Fridays for Future, led by Greta Thunberg, has been instrumental in mobilizing youth climate action globally.

10. Regularly evaluate and reassess the organization’s strategies, goals, and impact. Conduct internal assessments and seek external feedback to ensure that the organization remains relevant, effective, and adaptable to changing circumstances. This can involve soliciting input from members, partners, and stakeholders, and conducting periodic reviews of organizational practices and policies. By continuously improving and adapting, organizations can maximize their impact in addressing the climate crisis. Ceres, a sustainability nonprofit, emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in their approach.

11. Utilize the unique talents and expertise of your membership to enhance different facets of your organization, bolster your public image, and foster deeper engagement with prospective members. For instance, a retired A+ Certified Technician could conduct bi-weekly or monthly workshops exclusively for members, with the option to charge non-members a fee for attendance. This approach is particularly advantageous for individuals retired or currently employed in the healthcare, security, and related industries.

12. Generate innovative ideas to financially support your Climate Organization. For instance, I have proposed this concept to several Climate Organizations and will now share it, using my own skills as an example. As a hobbyist and someone who prefers alternatives to Facebook, I specialize in creating comprehensive online communities that blend the features of Twitter and Facebook. These communities can be secured with robust measures such as 2-Factor Authentication or Yubey Key, virtually eliminating the risk of compromise. Additionally, by implementing a yearly membership fee, organizations can bolster their financial stability while maintaining the community’s functionality. These organized platforms not only facilitate stronger connections but also provide a secure environment for members to collaborate without fear of opposition.

Remember, these suggestions are not exhaustive, and different organizations may have unique needs and approaches. It’s crucial to create an environment where individuals feel empowered, valued, and motivated to work towards a sustainable future. This was we can collectively make a significant difference in combating our shared Climate Emergency.

Climate Action Opposition:

One point to acknowledge is that despite our efforts to promote viable climate action, there will always be individuals and groups who oppose our initiatives or take actions that hinder progress. It is essential to anticipate and address potential challenges posed by those with differing opinions, mental health issues, or conflicting ideologies.

Rather than engaging in confrontations, it may be beneficial to create a dialogue forum where opposition can be expressed, fostering a space for constructive discussion. Who knows, even those with opposing views may offer valuable insights that could contribute to our collective efforts. As the Climate Emergency becomes increasingly severe, it is imperative that we work together and utilize every available resource to tackle this crisis.

If it becomes apparent that inclusionary approaches are unsuccessful with certain individuals, regardless of our efforts, it is best to express gratitude for their perspectives and continue moving forward despite their opposition. Over time, they may come to understand the gravity of the situation and choose to contribute positively.

“In the face of adversity, not only do we discover our inner strength, but we also gain foresight to guide others who may undergo similar experiences.” – Rachael Bermingham

Remember everything on this post was written in 2017 with some minor updates since and I added the last point recently (3.14.24).


Addendum: Personal Reflections:

(These personal reflections were penned in 2018, however recently updated to resolve sentence structure and grammar corrections.)

We find ourselves witnessing the realization of predictions made by scientists for the year 2100 unfolding before our very eyes. This underscores the pressing need to address the Climate Emergency with utmost urgency. However, our progress thus far has been inadequate, necessitating a shift in mindset: we’re not only safeguarding our own future but that of the entire human race, as well as preserving the rich tapestry of animal species and plant life. Sadly, many species teeter on the brink of extinction, and some have already vanished.

What perplexes me, and I’m sure I’m not alone in this sentiment, is the awareness among supporters of the fossil fuel industry, including banks, political leaders, and businesses, of the imminent consequences. Yet, they prioritize financial gains over the well-being of future generations, driven by avarice or a desire to cling to power. Their motivations are intertwined with the agenda of the fossil fuel industry, leading us perilously closer to our demise. It’s paramount to expose this agenda, which obstructs progress and places us in perilous jeopardy.

For many of us, raising the alarm has been mere rhetoric for too long. We’ve incessantly stressed the urgent imperative to hasten the transition to renewable energy. Now, the once-distant “great danger” has become an everyday reality. Severe weather events, once uncommon, now punctuate our daily lives. Without decisive action, the situation will deteriorate, claiming more lives and irreparably harming our precious biodiversity and oceans.

Given these formidable challenges, it’s imperative that we unite as a global community and embark on collective action. Governments, corporations, communities, and individuals all have pivotal roles to play in tackling the Climate Emergency. By embracing sustainable practices, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and enacting eco-friendly policies, we can effect profound change.

Moreover, education and awareness are indispensable in catalyzing positive transformation. We must educate ourselves and others about the repercussions of our actions and the imperative of sustainable living. Empowering individuals with knowledge can galvanize a widespread movement dedicated to preserving our planet.

As we navigate the complexities of the climate crisis, it’s crucial to prioritize justice and equity. Vulnerable communities bear the brunt of climate change’s impact, exacerbating preexisting inequalities. By centering our efforts on Climate Justice, we can ensure that the voices of the most marginalized are amplified, and their needs are addressed.

In conclusion, the Climate Emergency demands urgent and concerted action from all sectors of society. We must surmount opposition, foster dialogue, and implement tangible solutions to mitigate the catastrophic effects of climate change. Together, we can forge a sustainable future for generations to come.

Take care and stay safe.

cCc

Page 2 is the non-AI version of the Addendum only!