After years of being a lone voice in the battle to save the planet, environmental NGOs now find themselves being joined by politicians and businesses, says Friends of the Earth's Andy Atkins. However, he argues, green groups are just as relevant as they were 30 years ago.
After years of being a lone voice in the battle to save the planet, environmental NGOs now find themselves being joined by politicians and businesses, says Friends of the Earth's Andy Atkins. However, he argues, green groups are just as relevant as they were 30 years ago.
NGOs have been in the vanguard of advocating practical solutions to environmental problems, and implementing them through political action These days it can feel as though the environment is holding us to ransom.
NGOs have been in the vanguard of advocating practical solutions to environmental problems, and implementing them through political action These days it can feel as though the environment is holding us to ransom.
Floods, storms and droughts across the world are attributed to the global rise in temperatures, and as we run short of fossil fuels, price rises are affecting our transport, heating and even food bills.
Floods, storms and droughts across the world are attributed to the global rise in temperatures, and as we run short of fossil fuels, price rises are affecting our transport, heating and even food bills.
Small wonder, then, that the environment has moved from a minority passion to a hot topic in today's world, with politicians and businesses competing to be seen to be green.
Small wonder, then, that the environment has moved from a minority passion to a hot topic in today's world, with politicians and businesses competing to be seen to be green.
So what role can non-governmental organisations (NGOs) like Friends of the Earth play in driving forward today's environmental debate?
So what role can non-governmental organisations (NGOs) like Friends of the Earth play in driving forward today's environmental debate?
Over the last 30 years, environmental NGOs have played a lead role in speaking up for the environment when few others were doing so.
Over the last 30 years, environmental NGOs have played a lead role in speaking up for the environment when few others were doing so.
A key role has been to raise the alarm about damaging activities - including deforestation, GM crops, futile road schemes and spiralling waste - that most threaten our planet's life support systems and the resources we all depend upon.
A key role has been to raise the alarm about damaging activities - including deforestation, GM crops, futile road schemes and spiralling waste - that most threaten our planet's life support systems and the resources we all depend upon.
Back in 1971, Friends of the Earth marked its UK launch by dumping 1,500 non-returnable bottles on the doorstep of Schweppes HQ to raise awareness of the extra waste destined for landfill because of the switch from reusable to throwaway products.
Back in 1971, Friends of the Earth marked its UK launch by dumping 1,500 non-returnable bottles on the doorstep of Schweppes HQ to raise awareness of the extra waste destined for landfill because of the switch from reusable to throwaway products.
Today, the UK has a major landfill problem - but we had the foresight to predict this, and in 2003 Friends of the Earth led the campaign to bring doorstep recycling to most homes in Britain.
Today, the UK has a major landfill problem - but we had the foresight to predict this, and in 2003 Friends of the Earth led the campaign to bring doorstep recycling to most homes in Britain.
Leading the way
Leading the way
So NGOs have also been in the vanguard of advocating practical solutions to specific environmental problems, and implementing them through political action.Politicians wanting to be seen to be green are on message and on wheels
So NGOs have also been in the vanguard of advocating practical solutions to specific environmental problems, and implementing them through political action.Politicians wanting to be seen to be green are on message and on wheels
Many environmental NGOs have funded practical projects to conserve the environment in this country and abroad.
Many environmental NGOs have funded practical projects to conserve the environment in this country and abroad.
Without this, there's no doubt that more species would already have entered the history books.
Without this, there's no doubt that more species would already have entered the history books.
During the decades when most people and politicians did not rank environmental concerns high on their priority list, green NGOs fought a long and hard battle protesting, protecting and proposing ways forward.
During the decades when most people and politicians did not rank environmental concerns high on their priority list, green NGOs fought a long and hard battle protesting, protecting and proposing ways forward.
In 2008, the emerging reality of climate change has forced environmental issues to unprecedented prominence in public awareness. Now, environmental NGOs have to share the airwaves with businesses and political parties.
In 2008, the emerging reality of climate change has forced environmental issues to unprecedented prominence in public awareness. Now, environmental NGOs have to share the airwaves with businesses and political parties.
So what roles can NGOs best play now? The need for protest and protection remain, but vital roles for the future are:
So what roles can NGOs best play now? The need for protest and protection remain, but vital roles for the future are:
Communicating solutions: while the public and politicians are much more aware of environmental problems, there remains an urgent need for clarity on the best practical solutions, and innovation on the policies which will drive these.
Communicating solutions: while the public and politicians are much more aware of environmental problems, there remains an urgent need for clarity on the best practical solutions, and innovation on the policies which will drive these.
This is a challenge for those whose view of the political landscape has been shaped by years of protest, but we can do it.
This is a challenge for those whose view of the political landscape has been shaped by years of protest, but we can do it.
The UK's Climate Change Bill, which is set to become law in the coming days, is one example.
The UK's Climate Change Bill, which is set to become law in the coming days, is one example.
It will make the UK the first country to introduce legislation to commit the government to legally binding reductions in carbon dioxide emissions.
It will make the UK the first country to introduce legislation to commit the government to legally binding reductions in carbon dioxide emissions.
This was a policy solution initially conceived and proposed by Friends of the Earth.
This was a policy solution initially conceived and proposed by Friends of the Earth.
Encouraging public support: understandably, busy politicians with competing demands tend not to adopt far-reaching policy solutions on complex subjects just because they're a good idea.
Encouraging public support: understandably, busy politicians with competing demands tend not to adopt far-reaching policy solutions on complex subjects just because they're a good idea.
Public backing, indeed a groundswell of public pressure, is vital.Green groups played a leading role in the UK's climate change bill
Public backing, indeed a groundswell of public pressure, is vital.Green groups played a leading role in the UK's climate change bill
And as climate change and other stresses on the environment intensify, we will increasingly need ambitious, far-reaching proposals to prevent catastrophe.
And as climate change and other stresses on the environment intensify, we will increasingly need ambitious, far-reaching proposals to prevent catastrophe.
Individual NGOs can mobilise significant numbers of grassroots campaigners.
Individual NGOs can mobilise significant numbers of grassroots campaigners.
They can further multiply public support for a proposal by forming alliances, or backing each other's campaigns, in a way that is simply not possible for business.
They can further multiply public support for a proposal by forming alliances, or backing each other's campaigns, in a way that is simply not possible for business.
We've already seen potent examples. Friends of the Earth's own local groups and activists were at the vanguard of The Big Ask campaign for a strong climate change law.
We've already seen potent examples. Friends of the Earth's own local groups and activists were at the vanguard of The Big Ask campaign for a strong climate change law.
Crucially, the idea was taken up by the Stop Climate Chaos coalition which counts other major environmental organisations and development NGOs amongst its active membership. More than 200,000 people took action to persuade the government to deliver the world's first national climate change law.
Crucially, the idea was taken up by the Stop Climate Chaos coalition which counts other major environmental organisations and development NGOs amongst its active membership. More than 200,000 people took action to persuade the government to deliver the world's first national climate change law.
Building international agreement: as a species, we are bringing upon ourselves two tightly linked global catastrophes - climate change and the rapid loss of biodiversity.
Building international agreement: as a species, we are bringing upon ourselves two tightly linked global catastrophes - climate change and the rapid loss of biodiversity.
Solutions are out there, but it will require international, as well as national, action to apply them fast enough.
Solutions are out there, but it will require international, as well as national, action to apply them fast enough.
Critically, agreement is needed between rich and poor countries where issues of fairness will be central.
Critically, agreement is needed between rich and poor countries where issues of fairness will be central.
NGOs can help here too; environmental and development organisations have easy access to the experiences and perspectives of people in developing countries, as a result of projects they fund and the international networks they belong to.
NGOs can help here too; environmental and development organisations have easy access to the experiences and perspectives of people in developing countries, as a result of projects they fund and the international networks they belong to.
They also have a critical role to play in forging international civil society agreements and putting co-ordinated public pressure on governments.
They also have a critical role to play in forging international civil society agreements and putting co-ordinated public pressure on governments.
This will be vital if we are to achieve workable global political agreements, especially when it comes to hammering out the future shape of the international agreement to tackle climate change in Copenhagen in 2009.
This will be vital if we are to achieve workable global political agreements, especially when it comes to hammering out the future shape of the international agreement to tackle climate change in Copenhagen in 2009.
Critical times
Critical times
The seachange in public, political and business awareness of environmental issues is a dream come true for many environmentalists.
The seachange in public, political and business awareness of environmental issues is a dream come true for many environmentalists.
But it has not reversed the dire environmental trends that have led to the extreme weather and economic problems we are now seeing.
But it has not reversed the dire environmental trends that have led to the extreme weather and economic problems we are now seeing.
It simply provides a critical opportunity for NGOs now to drive much more urgent and substantive change.
It simply provides a critical opportunity for NGOs now to drive much more urgent and substantive change.
Communicating real solutions, mobilising public support and forging international agreements will be critical to achieving this.
Communicating real solutions, mobilising public support and forging international agreements will be critical to achieving this.
Andy Atkins recently took up the post of executive director with Friends of the Earth UK
Andy Atkins recently took up the post of executive director with Friends of the Earth UK
The Green Room is a series of opinion articles on environmental topics running weekly on the BBC News website
The Green Room is a series of opinion articles on environmental topics running weekly on the BBC News website
Do you agree with Andy Atkins? Are green campaign groups just as important today as they were 30 years ago? What role should they play in an era when many politicians and business leaders say they are convinced of the importance of environmental issues? Can they still mobilise public pressure to bring about change?
Do you agree with Andy Atkins? Are green campaign groups just as important today as they were 30 years ago? What role should they play in an era when many politicians and business leaders say they are convinced of the importance of environmental issues? Can they still mobilise public pressure to bring about change?
Andy represents everything that defines the self-important irrationality of greenies. Anyone claiming to help "save the planet" through supporting the preposterous, unworkable, meaningless and unachievable Climate Change Bill, really needs to grow up. Oh, and the planet is cooling, Andy.John Anderson, Guildford UK
'Green' is vastly overplayed. Yes, the earth is going to warm up, so what? its been hotter before! The ice caps a growing again and the temperatures are set to flatline for the next decade. Someone, somewhere is trying on the biggest con trick of all time. The fact that some politicians have jumped on the bandwagon reflects badly on them for not examining the facts. However, it suits there purpose not to look too closely.Ian Ward, Sandown, Isle of Wight
While the Green lobby groups remain both relevant and important, it is distressing to see the damage that they have done to their own causes. The UK's plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions simply cannot be met within the timescale set. This is in no small part due to the Green lobby groups own anti-nuclear campaigns which have delayed a major player in the greenhouse reduction process for so long that no new facilities could be constructed in time to meet the deadline, or the need to replace existing facilities. The result will inevitably be new coal or oil fired plants to replace the aging nuclear supply and the uk grossly missing it's own targets, let alone those of the UK. If the Green lobby groups had considered the ramifications of their own policies more clearly they would surely have realised that this was an inevitable outcome of two such opposing views.Simeon, Birmingham, England
I'm a suit and tie wearing white collar worker, ex nuclear and oil industry, kids at grammar, vote Tory etc.. But, I have solar panels and now two wind turbines, recycle bath water into the loo, triple glazing on order, extremes of insulation and have the lowest electric and water bills of anybody I know and going down each year! a bin that is usually put out all but empty and have been recycling for 20 years! Maybe I should be a member of Greenpeace or FOE but each time I look at them their blatant pro left policies are a total put off! They might be helping to save the planet, they rarely represent me! Perhaps we need a right wing pro nuclear green pressure group!simon mallett, Lenham Kent
I find it interesting the Robert from London cites the Daily Telegraph, Investor's Business Daily and a 1971 copy of the Washington Post rather than any peer reviewed science. (On the 1970s global cooling issue, he might be best advise to read Thomas Peterson survey of peer-reviewed scientific articles from 1965 to 1979 that found only 7 studies supporting global cooling, while 44 predicted a warming). But no matter, I'm sure Robert will soon to publishing his peer-reviewed study demonstrating that CO2 is not a greenhouse gas and/or is not accumulating in the atmosphere because of human activities.Paul A, London, UK
Environmentalists can be their cause's own worst enemy - they are forever demanding that people adopt more expensive and more time-consuming ways of doing things, just for the sake of the environment. They need to start working out ways in which ordinary people can be more enviromentally friendly without wasting time or spending more money: then those who are not quite as passionate as they might listen. If they come up with something that actually saves money &/or time and is still environmentally friendly, they'll be on to a real winner.Megan, Cheshire UK
The green movement is spot on - we only live on one planet and if we destroy it's resources and modify the climate , then our inheritance will be the biosphere's equivalent of the credit crisis . Looking at the comments here , I notice the 'nay sayers' are (as usual) trying classify anyone who thinks destroying-the-ecology-of-the-planet and causing-climate- change must be a 'communist, fascist or part of a conspiracy'. I'm not an eco-fascist or a communist . The reality is simple - we will all have to consume less as resources become constrained and we all depend on stable climate for our food. For the sake of balance (Robert / London) most scientist do believe in a man made contribution to global warming . This telegraph article outlines one of the consequences http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/earthnews/3458927/Himalayan-glaciers-could-disappear-completely-by-2035.html Pete M, Portsmouth
The green movement is spot on - we only live on one planet and if we destroy it's resources and modify the climate , then our inheritance will be the biosphere's equivalent of the credit crisis . Looking at the comments here , I notice the 'nay sayers' are (as usual) trying classify anyone who thinks destroying-the-ecology-of-the-planet and causing-climate- change must be a 'communist, fascist or part of a conspiracy'. I'm not an eco-fascist or a communist . The reality is simple - we will all have to consume less as resources become constrained and we all depend on stable climate for our food. For the sake of balance (Robert / London) most scientist do believe in a man made contribution to global warming . This telegraph article outlines one of the consequences http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/earthnews/3458927/Himalayan-glaciers-could-disappear-completely-by-2035.html Pete M, Portsmouth
These 'green' groups are the biggest single threat to our way of life - far bigger than 'terrorism.' The way in which these groups are now interlinked with corrupt politicians, the media and globalised big business just makes them more worrying. People need to start challenging the idea that unelected groups can randomly decide whole sectors of our essential economy, industry, agriculture can be banned on flimsy evidence and no alternatives offered. The population in the UK is far too high for us return to subsistence agriculture - lets start hearing some viable alternatives from serious with more to contribute than the anti-brigade.John, England
These 'green' groups are the biggest single threat to our way of life - far bigger than 'terrorism.' The way in which these groups are now interlinked with corrupt politicians, the media and globalised big business just makes them more worrying. People need to start challenging the idea that unelected groups can randomly decide whole sectors of our essential economy, industry, agriculture can be banned on flimsy evidence and no alternatives offered. The population in the UK is far too high for us return to subsistence agriculture - lets start hearing some viable alternatives from serious with more to contribute than the anti-brigade.John, England
Im so bored listening to the tedious drivel from climate change deniers like "Robert London". If they had any scientific qualifications, then they would realise that the peer-reviewed position of the IPPC is clear. Climate change exists and is a bigger threat to humanity than the credit crunch or global terrorism. Technology will play a critical role in tackling it and most sane people are all doing their bit to help - whether its turning down the heating, or walking to get the paper. Lets just get on with it and deliver the energy revolution required over the next 10 years.Matt, Hampshire
Im so bored listening to the tedious drivel from climate change deniers like "Robert London". If they had any scientific qualifications, then they would realise that the peer-reviewed position of the IPPC is clear. Climate change exists and is a bigger threat to humanity than the credit crunch or global terrorism. Technology will play a critical role in tackling it and most sane people are all doing their bit to help - whether its turning down the heating, or walking to get the paper. Lets just get on with it and deliver the energy revolution required over the next 10 years.Matt, Hampshire
Yes, extremely relevant!Richard, Gothenburg, Sweden
Yes, extremely relevant!Richard, Gothenburg, Sweden
Robert Johnson and Rufus Herring have a point - even if their political bigotry hints at other odd and unreasoned views. Green groups have not done enough to distance themselves from authoritarian politics, and often stand behind tax-at-the-point-of-use schemes. Flat rate taxation is anything but leftist, though it certainly isolates greens from socialists, and anyone with the slightest grasp of economics; authauritarianism seperates greens from anyone with a slight liberal leaning, and most more centre-leaning right-wingers. Green groups in this country do not have political power - as they do in much of Europe - as they have failed to grasp that they are a political movement, been roundly out-maneouvred by the established parties, and sold green principles to either side, thus alienating potential supporters in either camp. Many would agree with the importance of cutting emmissions and recycling, but very few can agree with the overall policies of the U.K. green groups.shoogle, Leeds, U.K.
Robert Johnson and Rufus Herring have a point - even if their political bigotry hints at other odd and unreasoned views. Green groups have not done enough to distance themselves from authoritarian politics, and often stand behind tax-at-the-point-of-use schemes. Flat rate taxation is anything but leftist, though it certainly isolates greens from socialists, and anyone with the slightest grasp of economics; authauritarianism seperates greens from anyone with a slight liberal leaning, and most more centre-leaning right-wingers. Green groups in this country do not have political power - as they do in much of Europe - as they have failed to grasp that they are a political movement, been roundly out-maneouvred by the established parties, and sold green principles to either side, thus alienating potential supporters in either camp. Many would agree with the importance of cutting emmissions and recycling, but very few can agree with the overall policies of the U.K. green groups.shoogle, Leeds, U.K.
If people want green they'll vote for it. But they don't. The greens are like the gay and the big corporate lobby groups(i.e. Alcohol/smoking). They completely bypass the electorate and the democratic process, and directly target elected officials.ady, edinburgh
If people want green they'll vote for it. But they don't. The greens are like the gay and the big corporate lobby groups(i.e. Alcohol/smoking). They completely bypass the electorate and the democratic process, and directly target elected officials.ady, edinburgh
Robert from London - most comments agree with the viewpoint that doesn't support the theory of CO2 induced global warming? What complete and utter rubbish. If we really had 'balance' we would in fact have several thousand scientific papers on one side and a small number (not even in double digits) of papers on the other written by scientists funded almost wholly by one company, with a very clear interest. The only people in the UK continuing to peddle this utter piffle are people like Nigel Lawson and Melanie Phillips who have not an ounce of scientific training or knowledge between them. The very same PR men and techniques as used by tobacco companies to deny the link with lung cancer are being used, namely the actual scientific argument is lost, but if just enough doubt can be sowed in the minds of the general public then a few years can be bought. peter, london
Robert from London - most comments agree with the viewpoint that doesn't support the theory of CO2 induced global warming? What complete and utter rubbish. If we really had 'balance' we would in fact have several thousand scientific papers on one side and a small number (not even in double digits) of papers on the other written by scientists funded almost wholly by one company, with a very clear interest. The only people in the UK continuing to peddle this utter piffle are people like Nigel Lawson and Melanie Phillips who have not an ounce of scientific training or knowledge between them. The very same PR men and techniques as used by tobacco companies to deny the link with lung cancer are being used, namely the actual scientific argument is lost, but if just enough doubt can be sowed in the minds of the general public then a few years can be bought. peter, london
'as climate change intensifies....' The scientists I trust tell me that there has been no increase in global temperature since 1998 and that ice accretion in Antartica is increasing by a trillion tons a year; but we will ignore these inconsequental blips!!!!!!!!!! Christopher Wood, Camberley
'as climate change intensifies....' The scientists I trust tell me that there has been no increase in global temperature since 1998 and that ice accretion in Antartica is increasing by a trillion tons a year; but we will ignore these inconsequental blips!!!!!!!!!! Christopher Wood, Camberley
Just watch the environmental groups fall off the edge of the politcal table as serious issues like the economy and foreign policy take the spotlight due to recent obvious events. To be honest I'm willing to ride out a recession as long as I don't have to hear more rubbish about 'carbon emmisions' causing 'climate change'. I can't wait for the responses telling me how ignorant or naive I am; and how I should be crawling to work on my knees while 'paying' for carbon neutrality for the debt i owe to the environment for having the street lights guide me in the dark. In my opinion, environmental groups get far too much respect than they deserve. Lets be frank, climate change would not be endorsed by multinational corporations if there wasn't money to be made. Crude oil is on the way out, energy companies have to make their money somewhere, they arent just going to shut up shop because the oil has ran out. I respect renewable energy, just another step in the human race's natural progression, but I dont like the way there is a 'do-gooder' attitude slapped on the front of it. Brendan Rogers, Warrington, uk
Just watch the environmental groups fall off the edge of the politcal table as serious issues like the economy and foreign policy take the spotlight due to recent obvious events. To be honest I'm willing to ride out a recession as long as I don't have to hear more rubbish about 'carbon emmisions' causing 'climate change'. I can't wait for the responses telling me how ignorant or naive I am; and how I should be crawling to work on my knees while 'paying' for carbon neutrality for the debt i owe to the environment for having the street lights guide me in the dark. In my opinion, environmental groups get far too much respect than they deserve. Lets be frank, climate change would not be endorsed by multinational corporations if there wasn't money to be made. Crude oil is on the way out, energy companies have to make their money somewhere, they arent just going to shut up shop because the oil has ran out. I respect renewable energy, just another step in the human race's natural progression, but I dont like the way there is a 'do-gooder' attitude slapped on the front of it. Brendan Rogers, Warrington, uk
You're right, the Earth does need all the friends it can get, but the problem with the herd is in making sure it is fed on facts. The diet is getting leaner. Your average politicians can't distinguish between truth and fiction. How could they? Poor blighters! You expect too much! These days you'll always find an equally opposing report or point of view to what might at face value look like common sense. NGOs or organisations of any kind are not especially good at sorting the wheat from the chaff or are they? We're bogged down in a sea of misinformation and half-truths. All that stuff about compact fluorescents, for example! Something (like electricity) through a perceived 'efficiency' of a curious kind causes a price to fall - and you use more of it, not less. One lamp in a kitchen when I was child; now perhaps ten or more. Not much mention of the oil-based plastic (that, for those who don't know, hasn't usually grown on trees) or the poison (like the mercury) in one of those kind of things that used to be made down the road, but now comes from China. No mention of the embodied energy. And a lot of the lemmings change the luminaire as well as the light bulb because they don't like what it looks like in the old style fitting. So the NGOs need to be research-based if they're to be any good. We led the Industrial Revolution, but like Credit, it looks like a mistake now, and we need an organisation - something as big and well endowed as NASA was - to sort out the mess, and with a speed. Perhaps it should be in Barnsley on the moral and physical high ground above a rising sea level. But, otherwise, we should make do with or use less of it whatever 'it' is - that's the underlying message I think. It's no time for any rash consumer spending! It's better, for the long term, that the economy is on it's knees. Howard Eyre, Barnsley, Uk
You're right, the Earth does need all the friends it can get, but the problem with the herd is in making sure it is fed on facts. The diet is getting leaner. Your average politicians can't distinguish between truth and fiction. How could they? Poor blighters! You expect too much! These days you'll always find an equally opposing report or point of view to what might at face value look like common sense. NGOs or organisations of any kind are not especially good at sorting the wheat from the chaff or are they? We're bogged down in a sea of misinformation and half-truths. All that stuff about compact fluorescents, for example! Something (like electricity) through a perceived 'efficiency' of a curious kind causes a price to fall - and you use more of it, not less. One lamp in a kitchen when I was child; now perhaps ten or more. Not much mention of the oil-based plastic (that, for those who don't know, hasn't usually grown on trees) or the poison (like the mercury) in one of those kind of things that used to be made down the road, but now comes from China. No mention of the embodied energy. And a lot of the lemmings change the luminaire as well as the light bulb because they don't like what it looks like in the old style fitting. So the NGOs need to be research-based if they're to be any good. We led the Industrial Revolution, but like Credit, it looks like a mistake now, and we need an organisation - something as big and well endowed as NASA was - to sort out the mess, and with a speed. Perhaps it should be in Barnsley on the moral and physical high ground above a rising sea level. But, otherwise, we should make do with or use less of it whatever 'it' is - that's the underlying message I think. It's no time for any rash consumer spending! It's better, for the long term, that the economy is on it's knees. Howard Eyre, Barnsley, Uk
Is it time to vegan yet?Graham Neale, London
Is it time to vegan yet?Graham Neale, London
It is sobering how much fear humans are capable of feeling. Facing up to change is almost always a difficult task, sometimes tremendously so, and requires a conscious decision to be courageous. One's inner world blended with the occurrences of the external world can result in some truly awful emotional and psychological turmoil. What human wouldn't want to evade that? Yet those who can utter even a few words in the language of ecology demonstrate a grasp of courage completely evaded by homo sapiens snared by the 'life'style of death. Fear and denial in its many manifestations, anti-environmentalists, is what we expect of you. You also are only ever tiny parts of the amazing Whole. Lightbright, Liverpool
It is sobering how much fear humans are capable of feeling. Facing up to change is almost always a difficult task, sometimes tremendously so, and requires a conscious decision to be courageous. One's inner world blended with the occurrences of the external world can result in some truly awful emotional and psychological turmoil. What human wouldn't want to evade that? Yet those who can utter even a few words in the language of ecology demonstrate a grasp of courage completely evaded by homo sapiens snared by the 'life'style of death. Fear and denial in its many manifestations, anti-environmentalists, is what we expect of you. You also are only ever tiny parts of the amazing Whole. Lightbright, Liverpool
The environmental groups are as irrelevant now as they ever were. Bjorn Lomborg realised this when he jumped ship from Greenpeace to write his own book that sensibly looked at the issues. All the environmental groups just want us propelled back into the dark ages, if we spent a tiny fraction of what we currently spend in a more guided way we could make a far bigger difference to society. Anthropogenic Climate Change is a busted flush created by a left wing environmental movement who saw it as the perfect issue since, according to them, it can only be fixed by massive reductions in consumption. If they genuinely thought it was a problem they would be supporting Nuclear and Carbon Capture actively rather than banging on the same old tired drum.Dave, New York, USA
The environmental groups are as irrelevant now as they ever were. Bjorn Lomborg realised this when he jumped ship from Greenpeace to write his own book that sensibly looked at the issues. All the environmental groups just want us propelled back into the dark ages, if we spent a tiny fraction of what we currently spend in a more guided way we could make a far bigger difference to society. Anthropogenic Climate Change is a busted flush created by a left wing environmental movement who saw it as the perfect issue since, according to them, it can only be fixed by massive reductions in consumption. If they genuinely thought it was a problem they would be supporting Nuclear and Carbon Capture actively rather than banging on the same old tired drum.Dave, New York, USA
If it weren't for groups like Friends of the Earth, promoting the solutions to the environmental problems and working really hard, on limited budgets, to get those solutions in place, this country and planet would be worse off. I've had a look at their web site and they're running a campaign for renewable energy right now - exactly the kind of solution we need to tackle the very real and serious threat of climate change. Good on them I say. Neil , Leeds, UK
If it weren't for groups like Friends of the Earth, promoting the solutions to the environmental problems and working really hard, on limited budgets, to get those solutions in place, this country and planet would be worse off. I've had a look at their web site and they're running a campaign for renewable energy right now - exactly the kind of solution we need to tackle the very real and serious threat of climate change. Good on them I say. Neil , Leeds, UK
The Greens and the Government always ignore the main problem which is human overpopulation. They would rather stroke pandas and hug trees than confront this issue. Billions will die when Nature makes its correction. We can prepare for this but we have to admit there is a problem first. John Lilley , Optimum Population Trust
The Greens and the Government always ignore the main problem which is human overpopulation. They would rather stroke pandas and hug trees than confront this issue. Billions will die when Nature makes its correction. We can prepare for this but we have to admit there is a problem first. John Lilley , Optimum Population Trust
The bigoted comments against enviromental activists are predictable and show one thing - the success of corporate PR agencies and spinmeisters in shifting public perception about the reality of global warming, species depletion, etc. The absolute bosh insisting that communists have taken over the environmental movement, that all biofuels are opposed (only agrofuels are widely opposed but there is wide support for other practices such as algal fuel production, etc) and other off the wall claims that wind turbines kill birds (how about looking at your cat as a real problem first) simply convince me that people are waiting and willing to have the wool pulled over thier eyes to justify destructive lifestyles. We do not only need a stronger environmental movement, we need to encourage a world where people can think for themselves and not be misinformed by the most egregious nonsense such as has been spouted against progressive, innovative environmental movements. I am amazed by the ignorance displayed by the majority of these posters at this juncture in history. And history shall be the final arbiter in this debate, as sure as nuts. People may become extinct, yet the world will continue, as Jeremiah Mahadevan states. The real tragedy is that it will be far bleaker because of our historically short-term presence. Whilst the article may be bland the comments highlight for me the need for increased education by independent environmental groups. We need more of them, not less. And if my kids have anything to do with it, they are not going away anytime soon, in fact the older generation is going to have some 'splaining to do.Glenn Ashton, Cape Town South Africa
The bigoted comments against enviromental activists are predictable and show one thing - the success of corporate PR agencies and spinmeisters in shifting public perception about the reality of global warming, species depletion, etc. The absolute bosh insisting that communists have taken over the environmental movement, that all biofuels are opposed (only agrofuels are widely opposed but there is wide support for other practices such as algal fuel production, etc) and other off the wall claims that wind turbines kill birds (how about looking at your cat as a real problem first) simply convince me that people are waiting and willing to have the wool pulled over thier eyes to justify destructive lifestyles. We do not only need a stronger environmental movement, we need to encourage a world where people can think for themselves and not be misinformed by the most egregious nonsense such as has been spouted against progressive, innovative environmental movements. I am amazed by the ignorance displayed by the majority of these posters at this juncture in history. And history shall be the final arbiter in this debate, as sure as nuts. People may become extinct, yet the world will continue, as Jeremiah Mahadevan states. The real tragedy is that it will be far bleaker because of our historically short-term presence. Whilst the article may be bland the comments highlight for me the need for increased education by independent environmental groups. We need more of them, not less. And if my kids have anything to do with it, they are not going away anytime soon, in fact the older generation is going to have some 'splaining to do.Glenn Ashton, Cape Town South Africa
Whenever people get the chance to criticise environmentalist its amazing to see what fears people have about us! We're all manipulative communists who take some weird pleasure out of making people's lives harder by the sound of it. Strewth. Of course environmentalist's claims should be interrogated just as thoroughly as anyone else's, especially when their claims have such serious implications - and they have been when it comes to global warming. 'Robert' from London's claims to being a scientist (very specialised...) should in contrast be treated with the utmost suspicion since he doesn't even give his surname... Chill out, we're just people who really do care for the planet and the people thereon - I know it's unusual, you're right to be suspicious, but please don't be totally prejudiced!Tim Halpin, Coventry
Whenever people get the chance to criticise environmentalist its amazing to see what fears people have about us! We're all manipulative communists who take some weird pleasure out of making people's lives harder by the sound of it. Strewth. Of course environmentalist's claims should be interrogated just as thoroughly as anyone else's, especially when their claims have such serious implications - and they have been when it comes to global warming. 'Robert' from London's claims to being a scientist (very specialised...) should in contrast be treated with the utmost suspicion since he doesn't even give his surname... Chill out, we're just people who really do care for the planet and the people thereon - I know it's unusual, you're right to be suspicious, but please don't be totally prejudiced!Tim Halpin, Coventry
I would say that as much as the NGO's always seem to use scare tactics and fear within their strong marketing campaigns, I do feel that if it weren't for a little fear there would be no progress at all in helping the world reach the ultimate goal of becoming self-sufficient without using up all the non-renewable sources of energy that it has to offer. Agreed, it is sometimes taken too far, but nobody would know about the environment and any of its issues if it weren't for the likes of Greenpeace and FoTE. I feel that with some important changes in the way that the world deals with certain everyday issues and thinks about the impact of what they are doing with the very long-term in mind, then progress is always going to be made and I think the NGO's help this. For example, changing the way houses are designed and built would be a huge factor in being able to help our environment. If every new house in the UK was built to be self-sufficient with its energy consumption, then straight away it would mean that pollution and the use of non-renewable sources of energy would be cut down dramatically. It isn't a huge increase in costs for a house to have solar panels, better insulation and various other techniques that are widely known to be included in the house from inception on the drawing board! If every house was self-sufficient when it comes to power, then I believe it would be a massive step to helping the environment. I think my issue with the NGO's of today is that they don't take on new technology very easily. They are expecting the world to change drastically and yet, they aren't willing to change with the times when it comes to technology. In my opinion there are many uses of new technology in today's world that will help the environment rather than hinder it. I think the overall message is that we have to all work together and not forget the ultimate goal which is: looking after our planet so our kids and their kids and their kids can still enjoy the wonderful and amazing place that we call home. Andy T, A Welshman in New York City
I would say that as much as the NGO's always seem to use scare tactics and fear within their strong marketing campaigns, I do feel that if it weren't for a little fear there would be no progress at all in helping the world reach the ultimate goal of becoming self-sufficient without using up all the non-renewable sources of energy that it has to offer. Agreed, it is sometimes taken too far, but nobody would know about the environment and any of its issues if it weren't for the likes of Greenpeace and FoTE. I feel that with some important changes in the way that the world deals with certain everyday issues and thinks about the impact of what they are doing with the very long-term in mind, then progress is always going to be made and I think the NGO's help this. For example, changing the way houses are designed and built would be a huge factor in being able to help our environment. If every new house in the UK was built to be self-sufficient with its energy consumption, then straight away it would mean that pollution and the use of non-renewable sources of energy would be cut down dramatically. It isn't a huge increase in costs for a house to have solar panels, better insulation and various other techniques that are widely known to be included in the house from inception on the drawing board! If every house was self-sufficient when it comes to power, then I believe it would be a massive step to helping the environment. I think my issue with the NGO's of today is that they don't take on new technology very easily. They are expecting the world to change drastically and yet, they aren't willing to change with the times when it comes to technology. In my opinion there are many uses of new technology in today's world that will help the environment rather than hinder it. I think the overall message is that we have to all work together and not forget the ultimate goal which is: looking after our planet so our kids and their kids and their kids can still enjoy the wonderful and amazing place that we call home. Andy T, A Welshman in New York City
Regrettably, the green agenda was hijacked by the communists. This resulted in awful policies(see Brighton) where car owners were forced to pollute more as journey times were lengthened and speeds reduced just to 'encourage' (read coerce) more people onto public transport. If we can get every car travelling at 55mph how more environmentally fiendly will that be? If we turn bus lanes into express car lanes will it add to or reduce the arm to the environment. Green pressure groups need to think their policies through an not let those with a social engineering agenda sway them. Think green + freedom for citizens. Then their point might be more widely adopted.Keith Jordan, West Sussex
Regrettably, the green agenda was hijacked by the communists. This resulted in awful policies(see Brighton) where car owners were forced to pollute more as journey times were lengthened and speeds reduced just to 'encourage' (read coerce) more people onto public transport. If we can get every car travelling at 55mph how more environmentally fiendly will that be? If we turn bus lanes into express car lanes will it add to or reduce the arm to the environment. Green pressure groups need to think their policies through an not let those with a social engineering agenda sway them. Think green + freedom for citizens. Then their point might be more widely adopted.Keith Jordan, West Sussex
I don't agree with the statement that green groups offer solutions, or that in 2008 Global warming is 'proved'! A day does not pass without a green group damming a new technological breakthrough. The reality is these groups are just anti technology and use the environment as an excuse. They want the world to return to some rose tinted view of the past where we all live simple lives farming the land. They forget that in this past the average life expectancy was 30. This would not suit me as I would be dead!Kev H, Poole
I don't agree with the statement that green groups offer solutions, or that in 2008 Global warming is 'proved'! A day does not pass without a green group damming a new technological breakthrough. The reality is these groups are just anti technology and use the environment as an excuse. They want the world to return to some rose tinted view of the past where we all live simple lives farming the land. They forget that in this past the average life expectancy was 30. This would not suit me as I would be dead!Kev H, Poole
For the sake of balance maybe Andy Atkins could read some of the 84,000 words which have already appeared in the comments section of this yesterday's article in the Telegraph "The world has never seen such freezing heat" http://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/main.jhtml?xml=/opinion/2008/11/16/do1610.xml IMO the obsession with promulgating the theory of CO2-induced global warming has put environmentalism back by 20 years. I also care for our environment, but as a scientist, I cannot support the theory of CO2-induced global warming. Most comments now agree with this viewpoint. For their on sake, environmental campaigners should move on. And I actually detect a slight shift away from it in the article above, which is good to see. In a few more years maybe it will be forgotten, just like the Global Cooling scare in the 1970s. Amusingly, the cooling scare was also fuelled by the same James Hansen who started this scare: Investor's Business Daily reports that a 1971 Washington Post scare piece entitled "U.S. Scientist Sees New Ice Age Coming" fretted that burning fossil fuels discharges particles into the atmosphere that reflect the sun's rays back into space. Emissions over 5-10 years supposedly "could be sufficient to trigger an ice age." The NASA research behind this hysteria was supported by a "computer program developed by Dr. James Hansen. You couldn't make it up!
For the sake of balance maybe Andy Atkins could read some of the 84,000 words which have already appeared in the comments section of this yesterday's article in the Telegraph "The world has never seen such freezing heat" http://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/main.jhtml?xml=/opinion/2008/11/16/do1610.xml IMO the obsession with promulgating the theory of CO2-induced global warming has put environmentalism back by 20 years. I also care for our environment, but as a scientist, I cannot support the theory of CO2-induced global warming. Most comments now agree with this viewpoint. For their on sake, environmental campaigners should move on. And I actually detect a slight shift away from it in the article above, which is good to see. In a few more years maybe it will be forgotten, just like the Global Cooling scare in the 1970s. Amusingly, the cooling scare was also fuelled by the same James Hansen who started this scare: Investor's Business Daily reports that a 1971 Washington Post scare piece entitled "U.S. Scientist Sees New Ice Age Coming" fretted that burning fossil fuels discharges particles into the atmosphere that reflect the sun's rays back into space. Emissions over 5-10 years supposedly "could be sufficient to trigger an ice age." The NASA research behind this hysteria was supported by a "computer program developed by Dr. James Hansen. You couldn't make it up!
Robert, London
Robert, London
Green groups are not relevant - they are not elected and they are not accountable. They attract people of a militant nature and have done untold damage. They like to claim they are the experts but when they get it wrong they say they only taken on board what the scientists tell them. They have charitable status but they don't have charitable aims. Many of them fly around the world at someone else's expense to tell eveyone elsee what to do, then tell us not to have holidays abroad. They cannot live according to their own rules and do not have educated people who genuinely care. They hate the rich more than they love the Earth, all of their policies will simply give money to those who don't work, and those who do will have to pay for it. They ca break the lasw and get away with it. If i tried to break into a power station, I'd be arrested under the Terrorism Act. Yet these guys can do anything and get sympathy from juries and the police. Same old story. I'll be glad to see the back of them.Tom, Cardiff
Green groups are not relevant - they are not elected and they are not accountable. They attract people of a militant nature and have done untold damage. They like to claim they are the experts but when they get it wrong they say they only taken on board what the scientists tell them. They have charitable status but they don't have charitable aims. Many of them fly around the world at someone else's expense to tell eveyone elsee what to do, then tell us not to have holidays abroad. They cannot live according to their own rules and do not have educated people who genuinely care. They hate the rich more than they love the Earth, all of their policies will simply give money to those who don't work, and those who do will have to pay for it. They ca break the lasw and get away with it. If i tried to break into a power station, I'd be arrested under the Terrorism Act. Yet these guys can do anything and get sympathy from juries and the police. Same old story. I'll be glad to see the back of them.Tom, Cardiff
I remember a time when recycling was done by 'tree-huggers', when vegetarians were 'pale weirdos' and when cycling to work made you the kook of the office. Those who stood by and laughed while people with 'dogmatic policies' and 'isolationist mentalities' patiently and diligently fought on are now taking heed of their advice in a fight to save what little green we have left. We don't only need these organisations, we should thank them for being right all along and putting up with the laughter. They got the last laugh and they deserve it. Wouldn't it be nice if we continued to pay attention to what they are saying and save the dolphins and end wars?Liz, Stockport
I remember a time when recycling was done by 'tree-huggers', when vegetarians were 'pale weirdos' and when cycling to work made you the kook of the office. Those who stood by and laughed while people with 'dogmatic policies' and 'isolationist mentalities' patiently and diligently fought on are now taking heed of their advice in a fight to save what little green we have left. We don't only need these organisations, we should thank them for being right all along and putting up with the laughter. They got the last laugh and they deserve it. Wouldn't it be nice if we continued to pay attention to what they are saying and save the dolphins and end wars?Liz, Stockport
The valuable work undertaken by environmental lobby groups is often obscured by their insistence on 'hair shirt' policies (i.e. focussing only on reduction in consumption and emissions). Narrow-minded opposition to technological solutions (carbon capture and storage, even nuclear) and refusal to differentiate between good and bad policy - e.g. blanket rejection of biofuels without differentiating between some forms of ethanol (+ve) versus most forms of biodiesel (-ve) are not helpful to the overall causeIan Thomas, London
The valuable work undertaken by environmental lobby groups is often obscured by their insistence on 'hair shirt' policies (i.e. focussing only on reduction in consumption and emissions). Narrow-minded opposition to technological solutions (carbon capture and storage, even nuclear) and refusal to differentiate between good and bad policy - e.g. blanket rejection of biofuels without differentiating between some forms of ethanol (+ve) versus most forms of biodiesel (-ve) are not helpful to the overall causeIan Thomas, London
Green groups are a busted flush - delays to nuclear have landed us with ugly bird decimating wind turbines, potentially ecologically disasterous barrages rising food grain prices for dubious benefits biofuels, mercury laden light bulbs to name but a few - the leading envo fascists just hide behind the 'green' agenda and the brainwashed automatons that they manipulate to create personal wealth and status and enforce their own hairshirt view of the world - local and central government use this mob hysteria to cynically reduce services and increase penalty revenues. We are finally waking up to this and rather than going back to year zero as the Monbigots of this movement espouse let's invest in technology such as carbon capture for Dax and coal in the short term - Hydrogen and fusion technology for the long distance and fission for the mid term. Invest in energy efficiency but as a way of reducing bills and reliance on imported resources. Mark , London
Green groups are a busted flush - delays to nuclear have landed us with ugly bird decimating wind turbines, potentially ecologically disasterous barrages rising food grain prices for dubious benefits biofuels, mercury laden light bulbs to name but a few - the leading envo fascists just hide behind the 'green' agenda and the brainwashed automatons that they manipulate to create personal wealth and status and enforce their own hairshirt view of the world - local and central government use this mob hysteria to cynically reduce services and increase penalty revenues. We are finally waking up to this and rather than going back to year zero as the Monbigots of this movement espouse let's invest in technology such as carbon capture for Dax and coal in the short term - Hydrogen and fusion technology for the long distance and fission for the mid term. Invest in energy efficiency but as a way of reducing bills and reliance on imported resources. Mark , London
Green groups have become powerful ego-driven multinational marketing experts, existing on fear, drama and the conscience-easing direct debit from the middle classes. They nurture more fear than fact, spread more ideology than pragmatism and in their frantic efforts to out-terrify their rivals, are progressively marginalising and fracturing what could be a powerful, practical global environmental consensus that could be positive for the future of the plant.Beth Davies, Chesterfield
Green groups have become powerful ego-driven multinational marketing experts, existing on fear, drama and the conscience-easing direct debit from the middle classes. They nurture more fear than fact, spread more ideology than pragmatism and in their frantic efforts to out-terrify their rivals, are progressively marginalising and fracturing what could be a powerful, practical global environmental consensus that could be positive for the future of the plant.Beth Davies, Chesterfield
They are not dogmatic policies and isolationist. The NGO's have given healthy warning over decades relating to the environmental problems the world is facing. World government has caught up. GO's and NGO's are now pushing the 3 X Win. Essentially cut your energy/material usage, you will then save or make more money and you are enhancing the social aspects of your community. Re. the militancy of Greenpeace: It was the French military that sank Rainbow Warrior, with loss of life and resulted with the incarceration of French military, by lawful process based on English law.Robin Corbett, Bexley, Kent
They are not dogmatic policies and isolationist. The NGO's have given healthy warning over decades relating to the environmental problems the world is facing. World government has caught up. GO's and NGO's are now pushing the 3 X Win. Essentially cut your energy/material usage, you will then save or make more money and you are enhancing the social aspects of your community. Re. the militancy of Greenpeace: It was the French military that sank Rainbow Warrior, with loss of life and resulted with the incarceration of French military, by lawful process based on English law.Robin Corbett, Bexley, Kent
Our time calls for all hands on deck. So NGO are just as relevant even if everyone else is starting to see the light. Translating a view that something needs to be done to actually doing something is also critical right now. Many who start to see something is important do not immediately translate that view into action, so NGOs are important in that way too.Susan Roothaan, Austin Texas USA
Our time calls for all hands on deck. So NGO are just as relevant even if everyone else is starting to see the light. Translating a view that something needs to be done to actually doing something is also critical right now. Many who start to see something is important do not immediately translate that view into action, so NGOs are important in that way too.Susan Roothaan, Austin Texas USA
Is this article meant to solicit donations for FotE? Or is it just a we-told-you-so designed to remind us who we have to thank for the 'awareness' we now have? Either way, environmental acitivism has been so politicised for years, steeped in rancid PR doublespeak and factual wantonness that I cannot, even today, accept claims made on behalf of 'the planet' without interrogating them thoroughly first. I strongly hope that an environmental organisation will emerge that presents a coherent, realistic message about bettering our role within this planet's natural systems, and repudiates the selfish, conscience-salving activism that is often the focus of environmental groups. Also, can we please stop talking about 'saving the planet', the planet has survived much vaster catastrophes than humanity, and should we disappear it will go on without us just fine.Jeremiah Mahadevan, London, UK
Is this article meant to solicit donations for FotE? Or is it just a we-told-you-so designed to remind us who we have to thank for the 'awareness' we now have? Either way, environmental acitivism has been so politicised for years, steeped in rancid PR doublespeak and factual wantonness that I cannot, even today, accept claims made on behalf of 'the planet' without interrogating them thoroughly first. I strongly hope that an environmental organisation will emerge that presents a coherent, realistic message about bettering our role within this planet's natural systems, and repudiates the selfish, conscience-salving activism that is often the focus of environmental groups. Also, can we please stop talking about 'saving the planet', the planet has survived much vaster catastrophes than humanity, and should we disappear it will go on without us just fine.Jeremiah Mahadevan, London, UK
Environmental groups are as relevant and necessary as ever, politicians like to talk about preventing damage to the environment but they don't like taking the action that is necessary. For instance in 1992 at Rio de Janeiro the UK government committed to reverse the decline in biodiversity by 2010 - has the decline in biodiversity been halted? No! Why? Because the Government views the economy as more important, but they have entirely missed the fact that our economy, as well as human health and wellbeing, depends heavily on biodiversity and the health of the environment!Leyton Williams-Davies, Wales, UK
Environmental groups are as relevant and necessary as ever, politicians like to talk about preventing damage to the environment but they don't like taking the action that is necessary. For instance in 1992 at Rio de Janeiro the UK government committed to reverse the decline in biodiversity by 2010 - has the decline in biodiversity been halted? No! Why? Because the Government views the economy as more important, but they have entirely missed the fact that our economy, as well as human health and wellbeing, depends heavily on biodiversity and the health of the environment!Leyton Williams-Davies, Wales, UK
Green campaign groups are more relevant than ever. It's true that people are suffering from climate-fatigue in that they are bombarded with environmental messages, in such a volume that people's eyes often glaze over. Grassroots organisations such as ours offer people practical ways in which to make a different to their local environment. Sometimes climate change and global warming is just too big a concept to grasp and you can certainly be intimidated by it and so do nothing. That's where local grassroots organisations come in. They offer practical ways in which people can improve their local area for global benefit. The results are visible on their doorstep and they can be proud of the improvements they themselves have instigated. The 21st century offers new communication tools which makes such efforts easier. For example, our campaign has been helped greatly by our facebook group page, which has helped us spread the word and get people involved.Adam Gretton, More Trees for Bath and North East Somerset
Green campaign groups are more relevant than ever. It's true that people are suffering from climate-fatigue in that they are bombarded with environmental messages, in such a volume that people's eyes often glaze over. Grassroots organisations such as ours offer people practical ways in which to make a different to their local environment. Sometimes climate change and global warming is just too big a concept to grasp and you can certainly be intimidated by it and so do nothing. That's where local grassroots organisations come in. They offer practical ways in which people can improve their local area for global benefit. The results are visible on their doorstep and they can be proud of the improvements they themselves have instigated. The 21st century offers new communication tools which makes such efforts easier. For example, our campaign has been helped greatly by our facebook group page, which has helped us spread the word and get people involved.Adam Gretton, More Trees for Bath and North East Somerset
The dogmatic policies and isolationist mentality of many of the environmental organisations causes them to alienate themselves from the public. In particular the left wing nature and tax policies of the Green Party, the militance of Greenpeace and the environmentally erroneous anti nuclear stance of FoTE are examples of this. A real world environmental organisation is sorely needed. Rufus Herring, Exeter
The dogmatic policies and isolationist mentality of many of the environmental organisations causes them to alienate themselves from the public. In particular the left wing nature and tax policies of the Green Party, the militance of Greenpeace and the environmentally erroneous anti nuclear stance of FoTE are examples of this. A real world environmental organisation is sorely needed. Rufus Herring, Exeter
