Rupert Read, a founder of Extinction Rebellion (XR), has had his share of doubts about activist methods. During a video chat with Caroline Lucas, a former Green MP, he reminisced about the group’s early days. Their first big protest in London on October 31, 2018, was a pivotal moment for many in the climate movement. However, by 2020, Read felt that XR’s approach was not making the impact needed. He believes what we need now is a “moderate flank” that feels more inclusive.
To address this, Read and Lucas have launched The Climate Majority Project (CMP). This initiative is for those who support climate action but don’t agree with the more radical tactics of groups like XR and Just Stop Oil. Read explained on a podcast that CMP aims to reach out to this broader audience.
The CMP was initially introduced in a book of essays by Read in January 2024. In it, he pointed out that many feel alienated by the language and culture of radical movements. With climate change becoming a pressing issue, it’s crucial to make sure everyone feels welcome in the conversation. Lucas joined CMP as a campaign adviser later that year, and they are currently building their team, gearing up for a public gathering in March 2025.
Their goal is to ignite “climate populism,” a grassroots movement that doesn’t align with any political party. Notable figures, including some conservatives and environmental activists, have signed their founding statement. But Read acknowledges that inviting moderate supporters, who may hesitate to join direct action, is a tougher challenge.
Lucas emphasizes that while peaceful protests can still be effective, they shouldn’t be the only tactic. In fact, the more aggressive methods used by groups like Just Stop Oil may actually deter potential supporters. This highlights a growing concern: the increasing criminalization of protest actions makes it tough for many people to get involved.
Yet, there’s a big divide in public perception about climate action. A recent study showed that while about 72% of Americans believe global warming is real, many underestimate how many people share their views. Similarly, surveys indicate that in the UK, around 80% are worried about climate change. Still, there’s a gap in awareness about how much support exists for action on this issue.
The CMP aims to help people realize they are part of a larger movement. They have secured funding from various donors and organizations, including the Open Society Foundation, to support community climate projects. Initiatives like Postcode Revolution and Cadence Roundtable are examples of how CMP is fostering local engagement.
Their first Climate Majority Forum took place in March 2025, where they held workshops for anyone interested in their mission. The goal is to make climate action more relatable by focusing on everyday issues rather than abstract concepts.
As the climate crisis grows, some believe it’s too late to meet targets set by the Paris Agreement, with emissions still rising. Read, however, sees hope in community building, arguing that practical local actions—like improving food security—can connect people to climate issues in a meaningful way.
In the end, there isn’t a single rallying cry for action. Instead, Read encourages individuals to find their unique roles in the movement. Everyone has a part to play in this collective effort.
As our conversation wrapped up, Read commented on his vegetable garden, highlighting the importance of self-sufficiency in our rapidly changing world. In the face of climate challenges, perhaps growing our own food is not just a personal act but a vital strategy for the future.
Check out this related article: Exciting New Climate and Blue Economy Initiatives Unveiled by PH and UK: A Step Towards Sustainability!
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