The Grand Canal in Venice, a popular tourist spot, recently turned bright green. This eye-catching change was part of a protest by Extinction Rebellion, an environmental group demanding an end to fossil fuels. On the 23rd, reports confirmed that they used a green dye in Venice and nine other Italian cities to draw attention to climate change. They emphasized that the dye is safe for the environment.
Paola, an activist with Extinction Rebellion, stated, “The crucial climate summit is wrapping up,” pointing out that Italy has been blocking strong climate proposals. Currently, delegates are negotiating in Brazil, attempting to formalize the phase-out of fossil fuels at COP30. Environmental groups have previously staged similar protests in Venice, using dye to spotlight climate issues.
However, these protests are becoming increasingly controversial. Many citizens across Europe feel frustrated by the methods being used, which include throwing paint on luxury stores and blocking busy roads. Some activists have even glued themselves to pavement during protests. While these actions aim to raise awareness, they have often backfired, leading everyday people to intervene, sometimes aggressively, to clear the roads. Videos of confrontations have appeared online, with many praising those who stood against the protests.
Every year, the planet sees record-high temperatures. Last summer, extreme rainfall killed 18 people in South Korea and left many others displaced. This is a growing reality; Pakistan has also faced severe flooding, with over 180 deaths during the monsoon season—many of the victims were children. Similar flooding in the U.S. has caused dozens of deaths in New Jersey and Texas. Meanwhile, southern Europe is grappling with extreme heat, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in Italy and Spain. The World Health Organization estimates that 175,000 people die yearly in Europe due to heat-related issues.
Critically, the effects of climate change disproportionately impact the most vulnerable communities. For instance, Pakistan, which produces just 1% of global greenhouse emissions, is among the countries most affected by climate disasters. This highlights how those least responsible for the crisis are often hit the hardest.
The increase in radical protests raises questions about the effectiveness of these methods. While raising awareness about climate issues is critical, the backlash against extreme tactics could overshadow the message. As we face worsening climate conditions, it will be essential for activists to find a balance between urgency and public engagement if they hope to drive meaningful change.
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