Meet Abi Taylor, a passionate climate activist and Co-Head Facilitator of EcoDU, a student environmental campaign group at Durham University. In a friendly conversation with Tabitha Lanyon, Editor of the EcoDU newsletter, Abi shares her journey into climate activism and the importance of political action in tackling climate change.
Abi didn’t always feel empowered about the world around her. As a child, she struggled with anxiety and avoided news that highlighted human suffering. It wasn’t until a friend organized a charity event for WaterAid that she recognized the impact people could have. This moment sparked her interest in fundraising and advocacy, especially during the pandemic when she worked with organizations like Tearfund. A pivotal moment came during her A-level Politics class, where she discovered her fascination with how politics shapes lives.
Through her studies, Abi dove into books on various social issues, including poverty and feminism, seeking to understand how she could help others. Her faith has also played a vital role in her activism, driving her to care for the planet and its people. Inspired by her teachers, Abi decided to pursue a degree in Politics and Sociology, solidifying her commitment to activism and systemic change.
Abi believes that politics is essential for addressing the climate crisis. While it can be frustratingly slow, she feels it’s one of the most effective pathways to create meaningful change. The challenge lies in addressing climate issues that span across different sectors and countries. Abi emphasizes the need for national reforms, especially in major countries like the United States, where political leadership significantly influences global climate action.
However, she admits that staying positive in these times can be tough. The stress of constantly facing disheartening news about climate change takes a toll. Abi finds solace in her faith, which helps her manage feelings of burnout and reminds her to step back when needed. She understands the dangers of feeling overwhelmed by the constant stream of bad news. Taking breaks from the news allows her to recharge and maintain her passion for activism.
In her role with EcoDU, Abi sees the incredible energy and commitment from fellow members. She acknowledges that every small effort contributes to the bigger picture of global activism. Change, though often slow, is happening, and it’s important to stay hopeful. The historical struggles for rights and freedoms remind her that transformation is possible, even when it seems unattainable.
Despite her hesitance to label herself strictly as an activist, Abi invests a lot of time and energy into the cause. She believes that both internal policy work and external activism are crucial in the fight against climate change. Finding the balance can be tricky, as she often feels she doesn’t fully fit into either camp. Yet, she values the diversity of thought and action within EcoDU, where everyone can contribute in their own way.
Ultimately, Abi views student activism as a vital platform for future leaders. Engaging students in environmental issues helps shape their perspectives and careers. She believes that universities play a crucial role in nurturing change-makers who can advocate for a sustainable future.
While Abi struggles with feelings of hope for the future, she recognizes the importance of holding onto optimism. The climate crisis is daunting, but she remains committed to fighting for change. She dreams of a day when her activism can take a backseat to a life that allows her to pursue personal passions, like owning a bookshop. Until then, the battle against climate change continues, and she’s determined to play her part.
Check out this related article: February 2025 Afghanistan Climate Vulnerability Assessment: Key Insights and Impacts for the Future
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