Young people from around the world meet on the edge of the Arctic Circle this week to discuss the energy future they want. Activists from Young Friends of the Earth Europe (YFoE Europe) will be joined by representatives from Nigeria, North America and Russia, and the camp will focus on climate justice and tools to empower resistance against dirty fossil fuels.
The camp, held on the Lofoten Islands in northern Norway, coincides with Young Friends of the Earth Norway’s annual summer gathering. Young Friends of the Earth Norway are drawing attention to this area as they are deeply concerned at the plans of for oil and gas exploration in this pristine wilderness.
Sophie Manson from Young Friends of the Earth Europe said “This location is one of most sensitive and biodiversity-rich ecosystems in the world. The area holds unique cold-water reefs, pods of sperm whales and killer whales, some of the largest seabird colonies in Europe, and is the spawning ground for the largest remaining cod stock in the world.”
During the week-long trip participants will learn about the fossil fuel industry, and share their own knowledge and experiences from around the world. They aim to build their skills and undergo training for non-violent direct actions to help protect threatened communities from exploratory drilling.
The group have a series of nature activities planned including whale watching and exploring the local surroundings. They will also meet with fisheries organisations and environmental groups from the local community in Lofoten to show their solidarity in their campaign against drilling.
“If the Norwegian government were to open the area for oil exploration, they will defy all environmental concerns, the majority of the Norwegian population and the last shred of climate leadership will be stripped from Norway.” read the first statement from the camp released yesterday.
The week of activities will culminate with a rally on Saturday when the major Norwegian political parties will debate the future of Lofoten Islands. However, the young people have already made their stance on drilling clear – ‘leave the oil in the soil’; it is up to their political leaders to catch up with them.
You can look at their full programme here.
You can follow them on Facebook or using #yfoeecamp on Twitter.
