Activism

Committing to a more sustainable lifestyle is undoubtedly a commendable choice, but it is crucial to remember that addressing the climate crisis requires advocating for systemic change.

Notably, the concept of the "carbon footprint" was actually coined by the oil company British Petroleum. While individual sustainable choices are important, they should not overshadow the need for collective action and societal transformation.

One effective way to deepen civic engagement is by combining long-term volunteering with activism. Many cities across the EU provide opportunities to join international movements such as Extinction Rebellion (Elokapina in Finnish), Scientist Rebellion, Fridays for Future, and various groups within the A22 Network, to name just a few.

It is also valuable to observe how these movements coordinate and collaborate across Europe, adapting to local cultural contexts while preserving regional identities. This offers a unique opportunity for intercultural learning. Many of these groups also encourage creativity, with working groups that merge activism with various forms of art.

While these international groups are more prevalent in cities and larger towns, rural areas also present several opportunities for collective climate and environmental action. For example, the European Ecovillage Network website lists many ecologically conscious intentional communities.

Another way for foreigners to better understand the local social landscape is by participating in grassroots and community initiatives, which are often present both in larger cities and smaller towns. Some of these initiatives focus on the environment, but it is important to remember that environmental sustainability is just one aspect of the broader sustainability concept, which also includes social and economic dimensions.

In this context, you might consider getting involved in climate justice initiatives and movements, advocating not only for a greener planet but also for a more equitable society.