Empowering Voices: Insights from Student Climate Activists – Part 2 of Our Youth vs. Climate Challenge Series | The Bubble

Tom Harrington is a Co-Head Facilitator for EcoDU, a student environmental campaign group in Durham. This interview is with Tabith Lanyon, Editor of the EcoDU society newsletter.

Let’s talk about your journey in climate activism.

My journey started back in early 2019 when I attended a ‘Fridays for Future’ demonstration in Nottingham. After that, I got involved with ‘Climate Strike Leicester’ and helped organize marches. I was passionate and engaged, but then Covid hit, which paused everything. I took a break from activism until I joined EcoDU in 2023. During my time away, I kept learning about climate issues and campaigning online. When I returned, I felt a strong urge to make up for lost time.

Joining EcoDU in Durham reignited my passion. It’s rewarding to collaborate with people who share my concerns and dedication to the planet.

What inspired you when you first started?

My interest in Geography, inequality, and environmental protection grew from my upbringing. My mom has always been passionate about activism and has been a vegetarian for decades because of her environmental beliefs. Her influence led me to study Geography and focus on climate change and social issues.

During my GCSEs and A-levels, I was already engaged, but Greta Thunberg’s activism pushed me to take action. I started putting up Climate Strike posters at my college, even if I was often alone. I remember one photo with my principal talking about my participation in the strikes. I’ve always been independent in my activism, driven by a strong desire to make a difference.

Can you share your thoughts on the Fossil Free Careers Campaign?

Engaging with this campaign has been a mixed bag for me. I’ve often felt frustrated, especially when our university leadership didn’t respond to our open letter signed by 60 staff members. Six months of silence was tough to swallow.

How do you cope with that frustration?

I power through, even though I know that’s not ideal. I’m good at compartmentalizing my feelings. When things get overwhelming, I focus on lighter topics before sleeping. I also cherish friendships outside of activism, spending time with my college friends to unwind. Balancing different roles, like being a Faculty and Course Rep, also helps. It’s fulfilling to hear student feedback and contribute positively, which occasionally gives us small wins in the climate movement. Even minor policy changes by the University can feel like a victory.

What about the impact of student activism? Do you think it matters?

Absolutely! Student movements have historically driven significant social change, from fighting Apartheid to opposing the Vietnam War. When well-organized, student activism can effect real change. Pressure from students, especially together with trade unions, can create meaningful results. It’s essential to build bridges between the university and the wider community to foster solidarity and ensure lasting change.

Community building is a big part of EcoDU. However, I wish more students got involved in social justice activism. Perhaps around 300-400 students are currently active, which is a small fraction compared to the total student base.

What environmental topics resonate most with you?

For me, it’s about protecting both the earth and humanity. I see a direct link between human suffering and systems like capitalism and imperialism. Growing up, I learned to view the environment through a human lens, realizing that environmental destruction affects people’s lives. For instance, small island nations facing rising sea levels really highlight this issue—people are losing their homes due to a crisis they’ve had little part in causing.

Is there any Geography insight you think more people should know?

Yes! A reading on the physical aspects of fuel sources made a lasting impression on me. It discussed the labor-intensive process of coal mining and how it empowered workers to form strong unions. When companies turned to oil, which required less skilled labor, they could better control workers. The shift had profound effects on labor rights, especially during Thatcher’s time when coal mining declined. Understanding the link between the materiality of energy sources and societal changes is crucial. That perspective changed how I view capitalism and environmental issues.

You often highlight the connection between humans and nature.

Definitely! Human and natural worlds are deeply interconnected. The belief that humans can dominate or disregard nature is outdated. The climate crisis demonstrates that nature retaliates against mistreatment. Many climate policies fail to recognize this fundamental relationship. While I don’t consider myself a full advocate for de-growth, I believe we in the Global North need to rethink our consumption and how we define a good life.

What do you see as the most pressing issue today?

In essence, capitalism is at the core. Environmentally, our energy production methods and the issue of overconsumption are critical. The Global North’s excessive resource use and emissions drive the climate crisis and contribute to global inequality. We need to respect our environment and coexist with it sustainably.

How can we shift our mindset to tackle these issues?

That’s the challenge—I’m not sure a significant change can happen easily. We’ve seen that even well-intentioned suggestions for lifestyle changes can be unpopular. Politicians who push hard truths often struggle to win public support. I’m sometimes worried about whether we can address the climate crisis in a democratic system. Many seem unwilling to compromise on their living standards for the greater good, especially for those in the Global South.

Do you feel hopeless about our future?

I don’t feel hopeless, but I am cautious. I believe we have the capacity to solve these problems, but executing that vision seems daunting. Activism requires a sense of radical hope. It’s essential to challenge despair. We can aim for better futures—we must. Giving up isn’t an option, and even if we fail, we should strive for a stronger effort.

What misconceptions do people have about climate activism?

Some view it as a fringe movement, labeling activists as extreme. But many activists are simply people who care about others and want to solve pressing issues like inequality and environmental harm. We need to showcase the human side of our movement.

What would you say to someone interested in environmental activism but feeling intimidated?

EcoDU is welcoming; there’s no pressure to commit fully. You don’t have to give your entire life to the cause. Just showing up to listen or participate occasionally is valuable. It can seem daunting at first, but breaking down the initial barriers can ease that fear. Building supportive spaces where everyone can contribute is vital for collective progress.

What’s a change individuals can make in their everyday lives?

Consider going vegan. I did it gradually over six months and fully transitioned a few months ago. Also, educate yourself! Understanding the issues is important—awareness goes a long way.

If you could advise your past self from the start of your environmental journey, what would you say?

I’d emphasize the importance of hope. Back in 2019, I worried about the state of the planet, but I now see that despair is unhelpful. No matter the challenges, it’s crucial to hold onto the possibility of improvement and continue fighting for change.

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