In a powerful display of activism, Dame Emma Thompson led a nature march in London with an estimated 60,000 protesters, demanding that politicians take action to protect the environment. The march, which began at Hyde Park and proceeded to the Houses of Parliament, brought together more than 350 charities, businesses, and direct action groups. Alongside Dame Emma, renowned TV naturalists Chris Packham and Steve Backshall also joined the march, lending their voices to the cause. Banners with slogans such as 'There’s No life Without Wildlife' and 'Make Earth A Rare Species' were visible, while chants of 'Restore nature now' echoed throughout the march. The protesters are determined to continue their advocacy and have set a deadline of July 5 for politicians to address their demands, warning that they will make a last stand for nature if their voices go unheard.
In a separate event, the Environment and Protection Association (EaPa) is organizing a walkathon on June 30 at 6am in Chennai to raise awareness on the effects of polluting lakes on the city and quality of livelihood. The walkathon will start at Pallikaranai Lotus Pond Park and end at The Quaide Milleth College for Men in Medavakkam [61f7cc87].
Meanwhile, the Rainbow Warrior, a ship used to promote Greenpeace campaigns, is sailing around Thailand in June to highlight threats facing Thai oceans and demand ocean justice and climate action. Greenpeace Thailand organized a public event titled 'Rainbow Warrior Ship Tour 2024: Ocean Justice' to raise awareness of the importance of Thailand's ocean biodiversity and highlight activities that threaten the ocean and its inhabitants. The Chana community in Songkhla is trying to protect the ocean and received attention in December 2021 due to the hashtag #SaveChana after authorities cracked down on their rally at Government House. The community opposes the transformation of Chana into an industrial estate and believes that people should be a part of the development discussion. They argue that protecting the Gulf of Thailand can contribute to the balance of nature and protect the world's seas. The Chana community has collected information on marine creatures in the area to demonstrate the abundance of natural resources. They communicate their cause through social media and organize activities to raise awareness. Greenpeace Thailand calls for local communities to be included in discussions and policies concerning development projects and hopes that the government will prioritize ocean justice and allow communities to manage their resources and have a say in their own future.'
[06ec38c0]