Update: The Camp will hold the space for the entire conference, reclaiming one the busiest locations in the world to push for genuine solutions to climate change. So, if you’re not off to Copenhagen then this is the place you need to be. Bring your tent, warm clothes, and ideas for action!
December 05, 2009
within the first hour of occupation, around 250 supporters arrived in the square and 20 tents established. many more are on their way. there are 2 giant manned tripods with the ‘capitalism is crisis’ banner flying between them. a yurt has been erected as well as various other shelters, a kitchen, and storage area. the first wood fires are alight, and the mood is excited and optimistic despite the damp conditions. there’s a sound system for announcements and music, and the ‘rinky dinky’ system is making it’s way up from parliament square too.
there is a full two days of workshops and other activities planned, and visitors are welcome to the square to find out what the issues and possible solutions are.
Groups cycled to London, stopping off spreading awareness about climate change, such as Climate Chains who came down from Leeds & elsewhere (more info here too)
What to bring
Simple. Just a tent, warm and waterproof clothes. Oh, and all your friends!
Wish list
Vegan food, blankets, tarps, pallets, party/frame tents, cardboard,
banners, big water bottles + anything else you think may be helpful…
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Press release:
Hundreds of climate activists have set up a Climate Camp at Trafalgar Square in the run up to the COP15 talks in Copenhagen next week.(1)
The ‘COP out, Camp out’, organised by a group of people who met at the Camp for Climate Action in Blackheath this summer (2), is taking place after thousands of people marched through the capital as part of ‘The Wave.’(3)
Tracy Worthy from the Camp for Climate Action said: “We are here with the Parliament in view to highlight that the elitist and undemocratic talks in Copenhagen are part of a political and economic system that puts corporate profits before the needs of people. We need system change, not climate change.”
“The false solutions being pushed in Copenhagen, such as carbon trading, will not solve the climate crisis. For the bankers, corporations and politicians who brought us the financial crisis, Copenhagen is no more than business as usual.”(4)
The location of the camp was kept secret until the last minute, when the target was announced through mass text-messaging. The activists met up at Jubilee Gardens (outside the Shell Building) and marched on to Trafalgar Square. Tracy Worthy commented, “The camp will be a space for people to get inspired and prepared for taking action during the COP15 talks.”
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Contact: 07040 900 905
Photos: 07909 020 847
press[@]climatecamp.org.uk