One of the dirtiest international climate talks on record draws to a close in Warsaw, with little progress towards tackling climate change, according to Friends of the Earth Europe.
Susann Scherbarth, climate justice and energy campaigner for Friends of the Earth Europe said: “We turned our backs on the talks in Poland. There was no progress to tackle climate change. It will be remembered as the dirtiest climate talks on record, where rich industrialised countries put short-term interests before the communities at the forefront of climate breakdown.”
Youth movements, including Young Friends of the Earth Europe expressed frustration at the corporate capture of the talks by big polluters, and the undue influence of multinationals over the process. Young Friends of the Earth Europe also walked out in solidarity.
Maruska Mileta, from Young Friends of the Earth Europe said: “We are beyond frustration – we are angry. Angry at the unjust process. Angry that dirty corporations are welcomed with open arms while our activists are kicked-out. Angry that governments of rich developed countries block progress on climate action. We stand in solidarity with the communities most affected by climate change, and we’re making sure that youth are at the heart of the climate justice movement.”
Civil society, including Friends of the Earth Europe, is strengthening its voice in the run-up to the People’s pre-COP in Venezuela, and the COP20 international climate talks, in Peru next year. The narrow economic and financial interests of multinational corporations, including corporate sponsorship, must be removed and greater attention given to the voices of civil society.
Susann Scherbarth, climate justice and energy campaigner for Friends of the Earth Europe said: “We have left the talks in Poland, but not the process. We’ll be back, stronger than ever, at next year’s talks. We’re strengthening the voice of those who want a solution to climate change that puts people and planet at the heart, not vested corporate interests.”
Friends of the Earth Europe will continue to put pressure on European politicians to work towards an equitable, ambitious and people-centred solution to the climate crisis.
