Global protests as key UN climate talks in Bangkok stumble
Delegates have been meeting in Bangkok since Tuesday, but have made little progress
Thai fishermen and labourers whose livelihoods are threatened by rising sea levels kicked off an international day of protests in Bangkok Saturday, where key UN talks are attempting to breathe life into the Paris Agreement on climate change.
As global warming races ahead of efforts to contain it, the discussions are deadlocked over a number of contentious issues, with activists demanding immediate action to prevent irreparable damage to the planet.
The “Rise for Climate” protest movement – which has organised events in dozens of countries on Saturday – wants governments to end their reliance on fossil fuels and transition fully into renewable energy.
Beginning in Australia, a tall ship moved through Sydney Harbour in front of the Opera House as activists on board held up protest signs.
Its billowing sails featured banners that read “Rise for Climate; Action with 350” – referring to environment advocacy group 350 which spearheaded the global protest.
Blair Palese, CEO of 350 Australia, said that the country – heavily reliant on coal mining for its economy – has long suffered the effects of climate change.