Taking the heat off climate talks

As the Copenhagen Climate Conference kick off halfway around the world, Martin Place will play host Earth Vigil – an event which organisers describe as, “a chance for people who care about the environment to come together in concern, solidarity and hope.” Part of the broader context of actions and events being organised around the globe during the talks, it is open to all individuals and groups from all walks of life.

The event is underpinned by a belief that we are all closely connected to the natural environment, and that there are important relationships between our wellbeing and our broader social, economic and environmental systems.

“It’s different from a protest in that the event is focused on deep reflection, particularly our interconnectedness to each other and the planet,” said event co-ordinator Naomi Bower. “It’s not only a faith event. I myself am not affiliated with any religion. I do feel there needs to be an opportunity for people to come together to reflect on the environment and in support of each other, particularly when it can get so overwhelming to think about the issues at hand.”

Speakers will include people from multiple faith backgrounds, as well as Sue Lennox, the founder and director of Oz Green, and Anne Lanyon, co-ordinator of the Faith Ecology Network. Proceedings will be interspersed with time for prayer, meditation or reflection according to people’s own beliefs.

“It’s not just about climate change, but looking at the environmental loss that is happening day-to-day,” Ms Bower said. “I think when people come together and we realise how many people care about the environment, then we build a sense of encouragement about the things we can do in our own lives as well as giving us hope that positive resolutions can be reached as nations and at Copenhagen.”

Earth Vigil will take place in Martin Place (between Castlereagh and Pitt Streets) from 6pm to 7.30pm on Monday, December 7. For further details, visit www.earthvigil.wordpress.com